Dermatology 101
Dermatopathology is a subject heading in pathology all unto itself. The intrinsic nature of dermatopathology specimens received in a laboratory necessitates a clear understanding of the material due to importance …
Histology Applications
Silver Stains
In the histology world, the mere mention of a “silver stain” may be the cause of panic and uncertainty with regard to the performance of the stain, and the quality …
Skin Cancer
In order to successfully prepare slides of skin specimens, the histologist must understand basic skin histology. Two major reasons for this are: The pathologist must be able to see the …
Microscopes
Question: As a histologist, where would you be without your microscope? Answer: Probably without a job. The great grandfather of the modern light microscope is considered to be Anthony van …
Bone Specimens
Bone specimens received in the laboratory can generate comments that range from: “This block is impossible to cut!”… to …“This block cuts like butter!” How can one tissue behave like …
Bar Code Tracking in Histology
Specimen volumes continue to increase in both hospital and private pathology histology laboratories. Histology laboratories must adopt new procedures and strategies for managing this increasing volume of specimens to ensure …
Stains for Microorganisms
The staining of microorganisms in histology can be challenging. Filamentous fungi and associated conidia are more easily demonstrated as they are visible under light microscopy when stained with periodic acid …
Chemistry 102
Ok. I know the previous Chemistry blog may have traumatized you a bit. But hang in there – we’re almost done. The dyes used in histology are chemical dyes that …
Chemistry 101
In order to be a competent histologist that has the ability to troubleshoot processing and staining issues in the histology laboratory, you must have a basic understanding of how atoms …
Neuropathology
Neuropathology is a histology specialty unto itself. Most hospitals and healthcare facilities will refer patients to a neuropathology center. Specimens can be procured by neurosurgery (i.e. tumor samples, brain biopsies, …
