Several histological stains are used to identify mucous. The most common include:
Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS): Stains mucins magenta, making them easily identifiable. Alcian Blue: Stains acidic mucins blue, useful for distinguishing different types of mucous. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E): While not specific for mucous, goblet cells and mucous glands appear pale compared to surrounding tissues.