There are several types of illumination used in histology, each with its specific applications:
Brightfield Illumination: The most common type, brightfield illumination uses transmitted light to illuminate the sample. Darkfield Illumination: This method enhances contrast in unstained samples, making them visible against a dark background. Phase-Contrast Illumination: Ideal for transparent specimens, it translates small differences in refractive index into variations in light intensity. Fluorescence Illumination: Uses high-intensity light to excite fluorophores in the sample, which then emit light at a different wavelength.
