Acridine orange is a stain that is commonly used in blood smears. Acridine orange is known for its ability to highlight the presence of Malaria in blood samples. Acridine orange is also aknowledged to be better than the Giesma Stain at identifying bacteria in blood samples, which has major clinical implications. 

When handling acridine orange, take care to wear a mask, laboratory goggles, protective clothing and gloves. Acridine orange is a respiratory and eye irritant, do not drink or directly breathe in acridine orange. 

Staining Procedures

Azure B is a stain commonly used in blood stains, and is often preferred over its sister stain, Azure A because of its stronger blue color. Azure B is commonly used in Romanowski stains.

Azure B was discovered in 1906 by F. Kehrmann alongside Azure A. Azure B was initially dismissed by the scientific community for being redundant to Azure A, with this notion being pushed foward by Ward J. MacNeal in 1925. Eventually, in 1940, Roe, Lillie, and Wilcox found that Azure B served as a key component of the Giesma stain- a stain known for its use in blood smear staining. The value of Azure B was finally cemented when it was discovered that Azure B could highlight malaria in blood smears, becoming a crucial diagnostic tool. Although Azure B is most commonly used in blood staining, it also has its uses staining Negri bodies.

Azure B is an acute oral toxin and suspected carcinogen. Do not eat or drink Azure B, and if it comes in contact with your mouth, rinse immediately and see a doctor if needed. Dispose of safely. 

Staining Procedures

Eosin B (Eosin Bluish) and Eosin Y (Eosin Yellow) are both key stains involved in the hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) blood stain. Eosin Y produces a stronger color that contrasts better against hematoxylin in the H&E stain. Eosin Y is essentially interchangeable with Eosin B, but  you can expect better results with Eosin Y.

Eosin dyes were discovered in 1874 by German scientist Heinrich Caro, who was in charge of the chemical company Badische Anilin- und Soda-Fabrik.  

Eosin B is not hazardous, but reasonable caution should still be practiced. Eosin Y is a serious eye irritant, and is capable of causing serious damage to the optic nerve and central nervous system. Eosin Y is also flammable. When handling Eosin Y, make sure you are wearing PPE- especially eye protection.

Staining Procedures