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Histochemical Stains


Histochemical Stains

Histochemical stains reveal critical cellular and tissue details that standard methods cannot detect, providing essential diagnostic information for complex conditions. At Golden State Dermatopathology, our expert team utilizes these specialized techniques to enhance diagnostic accuracy and guide effective treatment decisions for your patients.


Advanced Diagnostic Precision Through Specialized Staining

At Golden State Dermatopathology, we know that accurate diagnosis is essential for treating skin conditions effectively. Histochemical stains represent a crucial component in our diagnostic process, allowing our board-certified dermatopathologists to identify specific tissue components, pathogens, and cellular changes that routine staining might miss.

We use modern testing methods and the latest research to deliver accurate, dependable results that doctors and patients can trust. These staining techniques make important structures in the tissue more visible by highlighting specific pigments, parts of the cell, or microorganisms.

Going beyond basic tissue staining, our specialized methods reveal crucial features that help determine the right treatment approach for challenging skin conditions.

Our Advanced Staining Techniques

Specialized Testing Methods

We use specific stains to identify various infections in skin samples that might be missed. These specialized methods allow us to precisely identify pathogens that might be overlooked with standard staining methods, leading to more accurate diagnoses and more effective treatment plans.

Collaborative Diagnostic Approach

We use various microscopy techniques to examine tissue samples. Light microscopy allows us to view stained tissues at different magnifications, while specialized microscopic methods help us detect particular cellular features relevant to diagnosis. These approaches work together to provide a complete picture of the tissue being examined.

Advanced Microscopy

We utilize various microscopy techniques to examine tissue samples. Light microscopy allows us to view stained tissues at different magnifications, while specialized microscopic methods help us detect particular cellular features relevant to diagnosis. These approaches work together to provide a complete picture of the tissue being examined.

Active Histochemical Stains & Tests

Our testing portfolio includes:

IHC Tests

ALK, Androgen Receptor, BAP1, BCL-1, Ber-Ep4, CAM5.2, CD3, CD4, CD8, CD10, CD20, CD30, CD34, CD68, CD123, Pan-CK AE1/AE3, CK5/6, CK7, CK20, Desmin, EMA, Factor 13, HSV, Ki-67, Mel-A (MART-1), Neurofilament, PRAME, P16, P63, SMA, SOX-10, S-100, VZV, Kappa/Lambda ISH, and coming soon: BRAF V600E [VE1].

Special Stains

AFB, Colloidal Iron, Congo Red for Amyloid, EVG, Iron (Fe), Modified Fite for Leprosy, PAS With Digestion, and PAS Without Digestion.

Our board-certified dermatopathologists provide expert interpretation with collaborative clinical consultation for comprehensive patient care.

Why Choose Golden State Dermatopathology?

What sets our histochemical staining services apart is not just the technical quality of our work but also our commitment to collaborative care. Every case submitted is reviewed by an experienced dermatopathologist with whom physicians can consult directly. 

Our digital capabilities allow for virtual sharing of slides with the referring physician, enhancing communication and collaborative decision-making. Our dermatopathology lab provides fast turnaround times without compromising quality. 

Preliminary reports are available for complex cases requiring additional testing, helping physicians communicate effectively with patients regarding diagnostic timelines. This combination of technical excellence and physician accessibility ensures that your patients receive the most accurate diagnoses in a timely manner.

Supporting Your Practice Through Advanced Diagnostics

Any physician who treats skin conditions can benefit from our histochemical staining services. Our specialized staining techniques provide critical diagnostic information that guides effective treatment decisions.

We understand that behind every tissue sample is a patient waiting for answers. Our board-certified dermatopathologists Dr. Timothy McCalmont, Dr. Emily Green, and Dr. Michael Wang bring decades of combined expertise to each case, ensuring that your patients receive the benefit of the most current diagnostic approaches in dermatopathology.

With Golden State Dermatopathology, you gain a true partner in patient care. Have the confidence to be your best, knowing that a board-certified dermatopathologist handles every case with the utmost care and expertise.

Testimonials

The Golden State Dermatology Pathology Lab is simply the best dermatopathology group that I've ever dealt with in my 45 years of practice. I enjoy working closely with Dr. Emily Green. She is always available and is extremely helpful with her comments and analysis. The path reports are ready in a timely manner with just the right amount of information and with recommendations that are tailored to the ethical and practical treatment of dermatologic problems. Dr. McCalmont also is accessible and a great resource. I truly enjoy working with the whole team!
Emil Tanghetti, MD
Center For Dermatology and Laser Surgery
Dr. McCalmont is the greatest asset one could possibly add to one's dermatopathology team. He always provides clear and concise consultative opinions with a collaborative and approachable style. He is adept at incorporating the clinic presentation with the histologic interpretation of a biopsy, which is a critical but rare skill. Having the expertise of a world-renowned dermatopathologist readily available to me gives me peace of mind and enhances patient care.
Amy Reisenauer, MD
Reisenauer Dermatology
I have been consulting Dr. McCalmont since 2015, shortly after beginning my first job as a dermatopathologist, and his guidance has been invaluable throughout my career. He is remarkably diligent, consistently providing timely and thoughtful consultations. What sets Dr. McCalmont apart is his dedication to education—he often includes full printed articles when discussing unusual or rare diagnoses, turning each case into a learning opportunity. His expertise and commitment have had a lasting impact on both my diagnostic confidence and professional growth.
Leila Langston, MD
Aurora Diagnostics – Arizona Dermatopathology
Dr. McCalmont is not only an amazing dermatopathologist but a kind human being. I can never pay him back for his mentorship and contribution to my career and personal growth as well as our practice through his fast paced consultation service, encyclopedic knowledge and wisdom. He’s a true giant in the field and I’m privileged to know him and fortunate to continue to learn from him.
Mohammad Khan, DO
Medical Director - Onspot Dermatology
Dr. McCalmont’s diagnostic precision, expansive knowledge of dermatopathology, and commitment to patient care are truly outstanding. He consistently demonstrates a meticulous attention to detail, a thoughtful approach to complex cases, and a collaborative spirit that not only delivers a helpful report for the patient but serves as a learning tool for future cases. Beyond Dr. McCalmont’s technical expertise, his professionalism, reliability, and dedication to excellence makes him my first choice in consultants.
Elizabeth Uhlenhake, MD
DermPro
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