Lipids in the tissue are detected by which of the following special histology stains?
**Core Concept**
The detection of lipids in tissue samples is crucial in histopathology, particularly in diagnosing conditions such as lipomas, xanthomas, and lipid storage diseases. Specialized histology stains are employed to visualize lipids, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is Sudan III. Sudan III is a lipophilic dye that selectively stains lipids in tissue samples, making it an essential tool in histopathology. The dye accumulates in lipid-rich areas, allowing for the visualization of lipids under a microscope. This is particularly useful in identifying conditions characterized by abnormal lipid accumulation, such as lipid storage diseases.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** H&E (Hematoxylin and Eosin) stain is a general-purpose stain used for routine histopathological examination but is not specific for lipid detection.
**Option B:** Alcian blue is a stain used to detect mucins and glycosaminoglycans, not lipids.
**Option C:** PAS (Periodic Acid-Schiff) stain is used to detect carbohydrates, glycogen, and mucins, not lipids.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Sudan III is a lipophilic dye that selectively stains lipids, making it a crucial tool in histopathology for diagnosing conditions characterized by abnormal lipid accumulation.
**Correct Answer:** C. Sudan III.