Which cells show intense red cytoplasm in a Giemsa-stained section?

• A. Erythrocytes
• B. Lymphocytes
• C. Neutrophils
• D. Platelets

Answer: (A)

Giemsa staining highlights differences in cytoplasm based on chemical composition, so the cells with intense red cytoplasm are those rich in hemoglobin. Erythrocytes fit this perfectly because their cytoplasm is packed with hemoglobin, which binds the eosin dye in the stain to produce a bright red color. Lymphocytes have only a small amount of pale blue cytoplasm surrounding a dark nucleus, neutrophils show a lighter pink cytoplasm with granules, and platelets are tiny fragments with little, often unstained or lightly colored cytoplasm. The strong red coloration in erythrocytes reflects their hemoglobin-rich content and the eosin affinity in the stain.