Alcian Blue Method for Demonstration ofHistoplasma duboisiiin Paraffin Sections

Abstract

AbstractA special staining technique for demonstrating Histoplasma duboisii in paraffin sections was developed during a study on the staining characteristics of this fungus, which acts as the causative organism for a type of fungal granuloma known as African histoplasmosis, found mostly in African countries. The method is relatively simple, reliable, and easily reproducible. It uses two common dyes, eosin and Alcian blue, that are readily available. The technique does not require any special fixatives and can be carried out on formalin fixed, parafin processed specimens. Because the method also eliminates the complicated and time-consuming special techniques previously used to demonstrate this fungus, it is more economical and time-saving. In paraffin sections, H. duboisii are demonstrated as round to ovoid sky-blue circlets in rose-pink background. (J Histotechnol 12:220, 1989).