Limited sensitivity can occur due to a variety of reasons:
1. Technical Limitations: The resolution of light microscopy, which is commonly used in histology, might not be sufficient to detect very small or subtle changes in cellular structure. Techniques such as electron microscopy offer higher resolution but are not routinely used in standard histological examinations.
2. Staining Techniques: The choice of staining methods can affect sensitivity. For instance, traditional stains like Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) may not reveal specific cellular components or subtle changes as effectively as more specialized stains or immunohistochemical methods.
3. Sampling Error: The tissue sample taken may not include the area where the pathological changes are present, leading to false negatives. This is particularly significant in conditions with focal lesions.
4. Pathologist Experience: The experience and expertise of the pathologist play a crucial role. Less experienced pathologists might miss subtle changes that could be indicative of disease.
