Periodic acid schiff stain shows block positivity in the following cells:
## **Core Concept**
The Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) stain is a histological technique used to detect polysaccharides, such as glycogen, and glycolipids in tissues. It is particularly useful in identifying glycogen-containing cells and certain types of glycoproteins. The block positivity or "block-like" staining pattern is characteristic of certain cell types.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **D.**, corresponds to the cell type that exhibits block positivity with PAS staining. This pattern is typically seen in **Rieder cells** or more commonly in **megakaryocytes**. However, the most notable cells showing block positivity are indeed **megakaryocytes**. Megakaryocytes are large bone marrow cells responsible for producing platelets. The block-like positivity is due to the presence of **glycogen** and specific **glycoproteins** within these cells.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option does not correspond to cells known for block positivity with PAS staining. Without specific details on A, it's hard to directly refute, but typically, A would represent a cell type not associated with this staining pattern.
- **Option B:** Similarly, this option does not represent cells known for the characteristic block-like PAS positivity.
- **Option C:** This option also does not match the cell type associated with block positivity in PAS staining.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that **megakaryocytes** show block-like positivity with PAS staining. This is a helpful distinguishing feature in bone marrow pathology, particularly in diagnosing conditions like **thrombocytopenia** or **myeloproliferative neoplasms**. Recognizing this staining pattern can aid in the identification of these cells and contribute to the diagnosis of related disorders.
## **Correct Answer:** . Megakaryocytes