How is Muscle Degeneration Diagnosed Histologically?
The diagnosis of muscle degeneration typically involves a combination of clinical assessment and histological examination. A muscle biopsy is often performed, where a small sample of muscle tissue is extracted and analyzed under a microscope. Key histological techniques include:
1. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) Staining: This common staining method allows for the visualization of general tissue structure. 2. Immunohistochemistry: Used to detect specific proteins that may be altered in degenerative muscle diseases. 3. Electron Microscopy: Provides detailed images of muscle ultrastructure, useful in identifying specific changes in muscle fiber composition.
