A Review of Basic Histopathological Staining Techniques

Tissue staining techniques have been an integral part of pathology for over a century. These techniques allow pathologists to visualize the structure and composition of tissues under a microscope. These techniques play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of diseases and disorders.

The most commonly used staining techniques include hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and special stains. H&E staining is a routine staining method that is used to identify the cellular and tissue structures. The hematoxylin stains the nuclei blue, and the eosin stains the cytoplasm and extracellular matrix pink.

IHC staining utilizes antibodies to target specific proteins in tissues, providing information about the tissue's molecular composition. This technique is used to diagnose and classify cancers, identify infectious agents, and assess the tissue's immune response.

Special stains are used to highlight specific structures or substances within tissues, such as lipids, carbohydrates, and minerals. These stains are used to identify particular cells, such as bacteria or fungi, and help to diagnose diseases such as tuberculosis and fungal infections.