Which staining method best demonstrates elastic tissue?

• A. Verhoeff-van Gieson
• B. Silver impregnation
• C. Gomori Trichrome
• D. PAS

Answer: (A)

Elastic tissue stands out best with Verhoeff-van Gieson because the iron hematoxylin component binds specifically to elastin, staining it black, while the Van Gieson counterstain colors surrounding collagen red and other tissue elements yellow. This high-contrast combination makes elastic fibers easy to identify, such as in elastic arteries or lung tissue. Other stains target different components or provide less contrast for elastin—silver impregnation is more for reticular fibers and basement membranes, Gomori Trichrome emphasizes collagen versus muscle, and PAS highlights carbohydrates—so they don’t show elastic tissue as clearly.