Histological special stains
Special stains are performed to specify structures or substances suspected by the pathologist during his initial analysis of standard technique slices.
The histochemical techniques are based on biochemical reactions which make it possible to reveal in situ, various constituents (lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, metals, etc).
The purpose of the special stains is to highlight particular constituents of the cells (glycogen, mucus, pigments, etc.), or of the extracellular matrix (collagens, elastic fibers, amylose, etc.), as well as infectious agents (bacteria , parasites, fungi). These stainings are very varied and their implementation extends the technical process.
A new slide is required for each color (for this reason, the laboratory retains 'white' slides for possible future examinations). Each special coloring has a clean technical protocol using a variety of chemical substances.
Here are some special dyes we offer:
- Connective tissue: A.F.O.G, Azan Trichrome, Masson Trichrome, Mallory Trichrome ...
- Carbohydrates: Blue alcian, congo red ...
- Pigments and mineral deposits: Masson Fontana, Grimelius ...
- Cytology: Eosin-nigrosin, Sudan Black ...
- Mushrooms, bacteria and parasites: Giemsa, Warthin Starry ...
- Central nervous system: Luxol Blue
- Lipids: Oil Red O, Sudan Black B ...
- Nuclei and nucleic acids: Feulgen
