Why staining matters in pathology microscopy

Diagnosis is often the first thing that comes to mind when considering microscopy's role in pathologists' daily routines. While microscopes are indeed essential at this stage of the pathology laboratory workflow, they are used even earlier, with lab technicians or pathologists using microscopes to evaluate staining.

If staining is not used, the view through the microscope reveals only basic structural details of tissue sections or smears, and most details remain invisible. This is particularly true for very thin sections that lack contrast and appear nearly translucent.

Staining aids contrast as sample components take on different colors and staining intensities, making structures within the tissue visible. The most common stain combination is Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E).

About Leica Microsystems GmbH

Leica Microsystems develops and manufactures microscopes and scientific instruments for the analysis of microstructures and nanostructures.

Widely recognized for optical precision and innovative technology, the company is one of the market leaders in compound and stereo microscopy, digital microscopy, confocal laser scanning and super-resolution microscopy with related imaging systems, electron microscopy sample preparation, and surgical microscopy.


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Last updated: May 22, 2026 at 10:49 AM

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