American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnologist Practice Test

What staining method is best used to illustrate accumulations of hemosiderin in tissues?

1. Warthin-Starry stain

2. Prussian blue stain

3. Masson’s trichrome stain

4. Oil red O stain

The correct answer is: Prussian blue stain

The Prussian blue stain is specifically designed to highlight the presence of iron in tissues, making it the best choice for demonstrating accumulations of hemosiderin. Hemosiderin is a storage form of iron that can accumulate in various tissues, particularly in conditions of iron overload. The Prussian blue reaction produces a blue color in the areas where iron is present, allowing for clear visualization of hemosiderin deposits under the microscope. The Warthin-Starry stain is primarily used to identify spirochetes, such as the bacteria responsible for syphilis, and does not have a specific affinity for iron. Masson’s trichrome stain is utilized for the evaluation of connective tissue and distinguishes between muscle, collagen, and other tissue components but does not specifically target iron. The Oil red O stain is typically employed for the detection of lipids in tissues rather than for iron or hemosiderin. Thus, the specificity of the Prussian blue stain for iron makes it the most appropriate choice for illustrating accumulations of hemosiderin.