What Histological Techniques are Used to Identify Cancer Cells?
Several histological techniques are essential for diagnosing and studying cancer cells:
Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) Staining: This is the most common staining method, highlighting cell and tissue structures to identify abnormal cells. Immunohistochemistry (IHC): IHC uses antibodies to detect specific antigens in cells, helping to identify cancer cell types and their origins. Special Stains: Techniques like PAS (Periodic Acid-Schiff) or Giemsa staining can highlight specific cellular components, aiding in cancer diagnosis. In Situ Hybridization (ISH): This method detects specific nucleic acid sequences within cells, useful for identifying genetic abnormalities in cancer cells.
