[Argentaffinity and argentophilia. I. A critical review about the technique and the possibilities for histochemical research (author's transl)].

The author begins by dealing with a number of general questions on argentaffinity and argentophilia. He then goes on to analyze the individual phases in which the methods are performed, distinguishing and analyzing certain characteristics: a) of the materials fixation, b) of the steps preceding the argentic reaction, c) of the argentic treatment, d) of the development, e) of the fixing, f) of the toning, and g) of the after-treatments and counter-colorations. In particular, as regards the argentic treatment, he recalls some anomalous or little-known methods of impregnation, and, as regards the development, deals not only with the chemical, but also with the physical development, which is important, although less used.

[Argentaffinity and argentophilia. II. The sensitivity of histochemical argentophilic techniques (author's transl)].

The Author analyzes the relationship between argentophilia and argentaffinity, showing the importance and significance of the collection in parallel of the data which, only when integrated, make it possible to obtain complete and valid results, especially with regard to argentophilia. He then presents in tabular form and discusses the various situations that can occur in the case of argentophilia, both primary and secondary. As regards the latter, he takes into the consideration the initial and final characteristics, both of argentophilia and of argentaffinity, evaluating the importance of the comparison.