Elastic Cartilage · Histology

Which specific histological stain is most effective for demonstrating the fiber network in elastic cartilage?

  1. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E)
  2. Verhoeff's Van Gieson or Orcein
  3. Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS)
  4. Gomori reticulin silver staining
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Verhoeff's Van Gieson or Orcein

Elastic fibers do not stain well with standard H&E, often appearing as faint or glassy areas. Specialized stains like Verhoeff's or Orcein specifically bind to elastin, making the dense, dark-branching network clearly visible.

Difficulty: Medium Question 2 of 20

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