Method and device for accelerated treatment of thin sample on surface

A method for treating a thin sample on a surface such as a tissue specimen on a microscope slide, is disclosed which comprises; (a) providing a thin sample on a first surface,(b) forming a thin layer of a treating liquid on the first surface in contact with the thin sample,(c) generating infrared radiation, and(d) exposing the treating liquid in contact with the thin sample to the infrared radiation at a sufficient level and time of exposure to accelerate treatment of the thin sample by the treating liquid. The treating liquid typically comprises a nucleic acid probe or an antibody. A device suitable for carrying out the method is also disclosed.