Which technique is used to demonstrate reticular fibers in tissue sections?

• A. Gordon and Sweet's technique
• B. Gomori Aldehyde Fuchsin
• C. Verhoeff's Van Gieson
• D. Masson's Trichrome

Answer: (A)

Demonstrating reticular fibers relies on a silver impregnation method that makes the delicate network visible. Reticular fibers are thin, branching type III collagen fibers that form the supportive mesh in organs like liver, spleen, and lymph nodes. A silver-based technique coats these fibers with metallic silver, turning them dark against a light background and allowing you to see the fine reticular framework clearly. This targeted staining is what makes Gordon and Sweet's method the preferred choice for reticulin visualization.

Other stains highlight different components. Gomori aldehyde fuchsin can reveal reticular fibers but isn’t as specific and may also stain elastic fibers or other structures. Verhoeff’s Van Gieson focuses on elastic fibers, and Masson’s Trichrome emphasizes collagen in general (staining it blue) rather than the fine reticular network.