Histology Special Stains: Connective Tissue (Online CE Course)

(based on 215 customer ratings)

Author: Tanisha N. Neely, HT(ASCP)
Reviewers: Laurie Bjerklie, MA, MLS(ASCP)CM and Carla Shoffeitt, MSM, HT(ASCP)

This course is the second in a series exploring special stains used in the clinical histology laboratory. Basic connective tissue staining mechanisms and classifying connective tissue elements will be discussed. The material presented details the chemistry, diagnostic application, and staining protocols for special stains used to demonstrate connective tissue in samples.

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Continuing Education Credits

P.A.C.E.® Contact Hours (acceptable for AMT, ASCP, and state recertification): 1 hour(s)
Approved through 10/31/2026
Approved through 10/31/2026

Objectives

  • Describe basic tissue staining methods used in the clinical histology laboratory.
  • Explain factors that affect dye binding and utilize to troubleshoot staining issues.
  • Classify connective tissue elements and identify which dyes will bind to these elements.
  • Demonstrate safe microwave use when necessary to perform special staining procedures.

Customer Ratings

(based on 215 customer ratings)

Course Outline

Click on the links below to preview selected pages from this course.
  • Introduction
      • Tissue Staining in the Clinical Histology Laboratory
      • Biological Stain Commission
      • Which of the following best describes special stains?
      • True or False: The Biological Stain Commission publishes information related to histochemical techniques.
  • Basic Staining Mechanisms
      • What are Dyes?
      • Factors Affecting Dye Binding
      • Acids, Bases, pH, and Buffers
      • Basophilic and Acidophilic Staining
      • Oxidation and Reduction
      • Tissue staining is affected by all of the following factors except:
      • A solution with a pH of 6.0 is categorized as which of the following?
  • Connective Tissue Classification and Functions
      • What is Connective Tissue?
      • Classifying Connective Tissue
      • Functions of Connective Tissue
      • Where are reticular fibers (reticulin) found?
      • True or False: Cartilage is composed of collagen, elastin, and reticulin fibers, as well as adipose tissue.
  • Special Staining Methods Used to Demonstrate Connective Tissue
  • Microwave Use in Special Staining Procedures
      • Microwaves in the Histopathology Laboratory
      • Tips for Using the Microwave for Special Staining Procedures
      • Safety Precautions for Microwave Usage
      • True or False: Containers used in a microwave oven should be tightly sealed to prevent liquids from bubbling.
      • What should users do to prevent high-dose exposure to microwaves?
  • References

Additional Information

Level of Instruction: Intermediate
Intended Audience:  Clinical laboratory histotechnologists, histotechnicians, and other medical laboratory personnel who have an interest in this subject matter. This course is also appropriate for histology and medical laboratory students, pathology residents, and practicing pathologists.  
Author Information: Tanisha N. Neely, HT(ASCP), is a freelance writer with a work history in histology, microbiology, and pharmaceutical research. She attended Indiana University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in arts and humanities from the School of General Studies and a Certificate in Histotechnology from the School of Medicine. She is a member of the National Society for Histotechnology and the Indiana Society for Histotechnology.
The author has no conflict of interest to disclose.
Reviewer Information:
Laurie Bjerklie, MA, MLS(ASCP)CM, is a Lead Education Developer. She earned a B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of North Dakota and an M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction from Saint Xavier University. She has over 20 years of experience in higher education and has held program director and faculty positions in both MLT and MLS programs.
Carla J. Shoffeitt, MSM, HT(ASCP), is the Manager of the Pathology Department of Emory St. Joseph’s Hospital of Emory Healthcare in Atlanta, Georgia. She holds a Master of Science Degree in Healthcare Management as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Troy University, Troy, Alabama. She is certified as a Histotechnician and has over 25 years of experience in the field of Histology.
Course Description: This is the second in a series of courses exploring special stains used in the clinical histology laboratory. It will discuss basic connective tissue staining mechanisms and classify connective tissue elements. The material presented details the chemistry, diagnostic application, and staining protocols for special stains used to demonstrate connective tissue in samples. 

Figure 2. Reticulum staining of a section of the liver


Figure 4. Elastic fibers of aorta section stained with Verhoeff-Van Gieson


Figure 6. Masson's trichrome stain demonstrating cirrhosis in a liver biopsy