Combined lactophenol methylene blue-blue glycerol jelly technique as a new approach for helminths staining

Abstract

different tissues and organs of helminths, the process is time consuming. In addition, the critical step ABSTRACT Background: Permanent staining of helminths is important for different purposes including taxonomic and prevalence studies as well as teaching. Carmine is one of the most commonly used dyes; however, variable factors affect the quality of the staining outcomes. Therefore, it is essential to find an alternative stain that is efficient, accurate, and less complex. Objective: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the quality of a combined lactophenol methylene blue-blue glycerol jelly (LMB-BGJ) technique as a potential alternative for staining of helminths compared with carmine-based staining and glycerol jelly mounting techniques. Material and Methods: S. mansoni and T. spiralis were obtained from experimentally infected animals. A new staining technique (LMB-BGJ) was used for both parasites in comparison with carmine stain in case of S. mansoni and glycerol jelly mounting in case of T. spiralis . Comparison was conducted using examination under light microscope and a mean score was given for the structural brightness, and extent of staining of tegument/cuticle, suckers, intestine, as well as reproductive systems. Results: S. mansoni worms prepared with both carmine staining and LMB-BGJ showed moderate staining quality of tegument,