The re-staining process typically involves several steps:
1. Deparaffinization: If the slide is paraffin-embedded, deparaffinization is required. This usually involves immersing the slide in xylene or other solvents. 2. Hydration: The slide is then rehydrated through a series of alcohol solutions of decreasing concentrations, ending in water. 3. Destaining: The existing stain is removed using specific destaining solutions, such as acid alcohol for hematoxylin or picric acid for trichrome stains. 4. Re-staining: A new stain is applied. This can involve the use of routine stains like hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) or more specialized stains depending on the tissue type and diagnostic requirements. 5. Dehydration and Mounting: Finally, the slide is dehydrated through increasing concentrations of alcohol, cleared in xylene, and mounted with a coverslip.
