Intermediate
Technical
IVT
Prussian blue stain
A histochemical stain used to detect iron deposits in tissue, appearing as blue granules in areas of iron accumulation.
Full Definition
Prussian blue stain is a specialized histochemical technique used to identify iron deposits in tissue sections. The stain reacts with ferric iron to produce an intense blue color, making it invaluable for diagnosing conditions involving iron overload such as hemochromatosis or hemosiderosis. In cardiac pathology, it is essential for identifying iron-overload cardiomyopathy and distinguishing it from other causes of restrictive heart disease. The stain is also known as Perls' stain after its developer.
Usage
Usage note: May also be referred to as Perls' stain in some contexts.
In Context
- "Prussian blue stain demonstrated extensive iron deposition throughout the myocardium." — Pathology report
- "The Prussian blue stain was negative, ruling out significant iron overload." — Histopathology report
Also known as
Perls' stain
iron stain
Don't confuse with
Congo red stain
trichrome stain