Special Stains In The Modern Lab
Special stains are widely used in histopathology to provide enhanced detail that can’t be viewed through routine H&E staining. Whether looking for specific characteristics or certain tissue components, each special stain’s unique affinity allows specific cell structures to be viewed under the microscope.
There are a wide range of special stains available, each made up from a number of chemicals. Whether labs choose to prepare these stains in-house, using a commercial kit or utilising an automated machine, they need to ensure consistency, accuracy and efficiency.
In House
Where staining demand is low, preparing special stains in the lab can prove more cost-effective. In addition, there is more flexibility and control to adapt staining protocols as required. Though financially beneficial, preparing these special stains can be labour intensive and requires skilled individuals. In addition, safety around the handling of these chemicals needs to be carefully monitored. While most lab procedures are accredited, certain special stains require UKAS accreditation for quality assurance and competence.
Ready-to-use Reagents
Arriving ready prepared, in sealed containers, commercial kits offer a higher level of safety by reducing exposure to the hazardous chemicals used in special stains. These stains are prepared to a specific standard, ensuring consistency and accuracy. Although a more expensive option, they reduce preparation time in busy, high throughput labs.
Solmedia offer a range of special stain kits, each ready-to-use. Commonly used across histology labs, the Alcian Yellow Toluidine Blue six-reagent kit is used in gastric tissue sections to identify H. pylori bacteria. The kit contains all the reagents needed to complete the stain, often providing enough to carry out up to 100 staining procedures.
Automated
Automated machines provide the most accurate and reproducible special stains. In busy labs these machines free up time for lab technicians and prioritise staff safety. Though a high upfront cost and ongoing maintenance may make this an unsuitable option for smaller labs.
Each lab has its own specific requirements and will need to consider a number of factors, including lab size, demand and staffing, before deciding which option might work best for them. Many labs adopt a hybrid system, adjusting their method to meet demand. However, automation is becoming more prevalent in the modern-day lab, continuing to produce accurate, reproducible results and improving technician productivity.