American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnologist Practice Test

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Rhodanine stain is primarily used to detect which element in liver tissue?

Lead
Copper
Iron
Calcium

The correct answer is: Copper

Rhodanine stain is specifically utilized to detect the presence of copper in tissues, particularly in the context of liver biopsies. This staining technique is especially valuable for identifying Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder that leads to an accumulation of copper in the liver and other organs. Rhodanine reacts with copper to form a reddish-brown complex, making it easier to visualize areas of copper accumulation under a microscope. This specificity is crucial for diagnosing conditions related to copper metabolism disorders. In contrast, the other choices do not align with the primary application of rhodanine. While lead, iron, and calcium can also be detected in various tissues using different staining methods, they are not the targets of rhodanine. This unique aspect of the stain highlights its significance in clinical pathology, particularly in the assessment of liver tissue for copper-related diseases.