Special Stains Used in Histopathological Techniques: A Brief View

Abstract

The routine staining which is also called as H & E staining (Hematoxylin and eosin) is the most widely used
stain in the laboratories or histopathology laboratory. In this procedure the nuclear protein stains purple
and the cytoplasm and any other substances stains as red or orange. It plays a very crucial role in medical
diagnosis or research where the specimen or tissue is been sent for processing. The staining procedure is
performed by trained professionals and after which the role of highly trained pathologists and researchers
come, which under the microscope view the specific structures, cells and even microorganisms to provide
a diagnosis for the specific disease. The special stains are those which come under the special staining
technique or alternative method for the H & E stains, where H & E staining does not provide the proper
identification or appreciation of certain normal and abnormal tissue or structure which the pathologist or
researchers needs. This article throws light on the Special stains which are been used in histopathological
procedures in which these abnormal or normal tissues can be properly appreciated. The article also focuses
on the procedure, principle and uses of these special stains in their respective field.