What are common histological stains and their specificities?
Several common stains are used in histology, each with specific affinities:
Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E): Hematoxylin stains nuclei blue or purple, while eosin stains cytoplasm and extracellular matrix pink. Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS): This stain is specific for polysaccharides and mucosubstances, highlighting glycogen and mucin. Masson's Trichrome: This stain differentiates between muscle (red), collagen (blue or green), and nuclei (black). Silver Stains: Used for reticular fibers, fungi, and certain bacteria, silver stains are highly specific for these elements.
