The routine use of histochemical stains in gastrointestinal pathology: a UK-wide survey

• Published in: Histopathology Vol. 55; no. 2; pp. 214 - 217
• Main Authors: Koenig, Michael, Schofield, John B, Warren, Bryan F, Shepherd, Neil A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Publishing Ltd 01.08.2009; Blackwell
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Biopsy; Coloring Agents; Data Collection; Electronic Mail; Eosine Yellowish-(YS); Fluorescent Dyes; gastrointestinal tract; Gastrointestinal Tract - pathology; Hematoxylin; histochemistry; Histocytochemistry - methods; Humans; Intestinal Mucosa - pathology; Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects); Medical sciences; NHS; Pathology. Cytology. Biochemistry. Spectrometry. Miscellaneous investigative techniques; special stains; Staining and Labeling - methods; Surveys and Questionnaires; United Kingdom; United Kingdom; Europe; Health system; Stomach; Stain; gastrointestinal tract; Digestive system; Use; special stains; Routine analysis; Gastrointestinal; Anatomic pathology; Survey; Surveillance; Biopsy; NHS; Histochemistry
• ISSN: 0309-0167; 1365-2559
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2009.03362.x

Aims:  A survey was conducted into the routine use of special stains on gastrointestinal (GI) biopsy specimens in histopathology departments within the National Health Service. The aim was to compare the sole use of haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining with the use of H&E and special stains, according to the biopsy site. Methods and results:  One hundred and sixty‐seven histopathology departments in the UK were contacted using an e‐mail questionnaire. Valid return rate was 55%. Sixty‐eight percent of departments employ H&E only for oesophageal biopsy specimens. Gastric specimens are stained using only H&E in 47% of departments and 53% use H&E combined with special stains. Duodenal, small and large bowel biopsy specimens are mostly stained with H&E. Conclusions:  The results show that the routine use of special stains in GI pathology in the UK is highly variable, especially for oesophageal and gastric biopsy specimens. The literature indicates that special stains in GI specimens can enhance sensitivity and specificity for the detection of pathological abnormalities, especially metaplasia and infections. The diversity of staining practice highlights the need to provide robust and evidence‐based guidelines for the routine use of special stains to ensure universal best practice.