Special Stains for Skin: Fungi

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The page below is a sample from the LabCE course The Histology of Dermatological Specimens - Part 2 (retired 9/20/2021). Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

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Special Stains for Skin: Fungi

Many skin conditions are caused by fungal infections, known as mycosis. Microscopically, fungi can demonstrate filaments (hyphae), rounded outgrowths (budding), or a combination of the two. Examples of fungal skin conditions include:
  • Nail fungus
  • Athlete's foot
  • Ring worm (not caused by a worm)
  • Yeast infections

Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS): Demonstrates fungal cell walls by staining them magenta.

Grocott's methenamine silver (GMS): Demonstrates fungal cell walls by staining them black.

Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)
Grocott's methenamine silver (GMS)