Special Stain, Phosphotungstic Acid-Hematoxylin (PTAH)
Also known as: PTAH SS
Use
This test is used as a special stain in histopathology to demonstrate certain tissue structures. The Phosphotungstic Acid-Hematoxylin (PTAH) stain is particularly useful for identifying muscle cross striations, glial fibers, myelin, and certain extracellular fibrils in tissues. Mallory's PTAH stain is often used to visualize and study these specific histological components.
Special Instructions
The test is performed as a technical service where slides are returned after staining. The test requires submission of either formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue blocks or slides. An ARUP Anatomic Pathology Form (#32960) should accompany the test order if electronic ordering is unavailable.
Limitations
The test is limited to the technical staining and does not include interpretation of the histological findings. Therefore, it requires an appropriate sample submission with representative tissue type. Depleted samples or those with non-representative tissue may be rejected. Understanding of the specific histochemical characteristics is necessary for interpretation.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 10801-9
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Tissue (FFPE)
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
1 slide
Container
Tissue transport kit (ARUP supply #47808)
Collection Instructions
Transport tissue block or 2 unstained (3- to 5-micron thick sections), positively charged slides.
Storage Instructions
Protect paraffin block and/or slides from excessive heat.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens submitted with non-representative tissue type. Depleted specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Indefinitely |
| Refrigerated | Indefinitely |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |