Paquin & Goddard's Iron Hematoxylin
Materials
Hematoxylin Solution
| Material | Amount | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Hematoxylin | 0.8 g | Dye |
| Ferric ammonium sulfate | 5 g | Mordant |
| Ammonium sulfate | 0.7 g | – |
| 95% ethanol | 25 mL | Solvent |
| Glycerol | 13 mL | Solvent |
| Distilled water | 75 mL | Solvent |
Picric Ethanol
| Material | Amount | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Picric acid, saturated ethanolic. | 6 mL | Acid |
| 95% ethanol | 94 mL | Solvent |
Compounding Procedure
- Combine the glycerol and ethanol.
- Add the hematoxylin and dissolve using gentle heat.
- Dissolve the other ingredients in the water.
- Add slowly to the hematoxylin solution with agitation.
- Let stand for 24 hours before use.
Protocol
- Bring sections to water with xylene and ethanol.
- Place into the staining solution for 5 minutes.
- Rinse with tap water.
- Differentiate briefly in picric ethanol.
- Wash well in running tap water to blue.
- Rinse with distilled water.
- Counterstain if desired.
- Dehydrate with ethanol, clear with xylene and mount with a resinous medium.
Expected Results
- Nuclei – black
- Background – as counterstain or unstained
Notes
- This was specified as an acid resistant nuclear stain prior to Paquin & Goddard’s trichrome. It is also suitable for other methods requiring an acid resistant nuclear stain.
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:
Paquin and Goddard, (1947)
Bulletin of the International Association of Medical Museums
and Journal of Technical Methods, v. 27, p. 198
