Cason's Trichrome
for Muscle and Collagen
Materials
Staining solution
| Material | Amount | |
|---|---|---|
| Orange G | 1 | g |
| Acid fuchsin | 1.5 | g |
| Aniline blue | 0.5 | g |
| Phosphotungstic acid | 1 | g |
| Distilled water | 100 | mL |
Tissue Sample
5µ paraffin sections of neutral buffered formalin fixed tissue are suitable. Other fixatives are likely to be satisfactory. Most trichrome stains benefit from picric acid or mercuric chloride fixation. Formalin fixed tissues may benefit from secondary fixation of sections in Bouin’s fluid.
Protocol
- Bring sections to water via xylene and ethanol.
- Place into the staining solution for 5 minute.
- Rinse with distilled water.
- Dehydrate with ethanol.
- Clear with xylene and mount with a resinous medium.
Expected Results
- Nuclei – red
- Erythrocytes – orange
- Cytoplasm – red
- Collagen – blue
Notes
- Although the method does not specifically call for one, an acid resistant nuclear stain could be inserted immediately before step 2.
Safety Note
Prior to handling any chemical, consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for proper handling and safety precautions.
References
- Gray, Peter. (1954)
The Microtomist’s Formulary and Guide.
Originally published by: The Blakiston Co.
Republished by: Robert E. Krieger Publishing Co.
Citing:
Cason, (1950)
Stain technology, vol.25, pp.225
