histologisch

Histologisch is the German adjective corresponding to the English term histological, and it refers to histology, the study of the microscopic structure of tissues. Histological analysis involves preparing tissue samples so their architecture and cellular details can be observed under a microscope. Typical preparation includes fixation to preserve tissue, embedding in paraffin, and sectioning into thin slices, followed by staining to enhance contrast.

The most common stain is hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), which highlights nuclei in blue and cytoplasm and extracellular matrix in pink. In addition, specialized stains such as periodic acid–Schiff (PAS), Masson's trichrome, Ziehl-Neelsen, and Gram stain illuminate specific tissue components or microorganisms. Modern histology often employs immunohistochemistry to detect specific proteins, histochemistry to reveal enzymatic activity, and in situ hybridization to localize nucleic acids. Microscopy methods range from light microscopy for routine assessment to electron microscopy for ultra-structural detail, and immunofluorescence or fluorescence in situ hybridization for molecular localization. Digital pathology and whole-slide imaging are increasingly used in routine practice.

Applications span clinical pathology and diagnostics, including histopathology to classify diseases, assess tumor type and grade, and determine surgical margins. Histology also underpins research into tissue development, regeneration, and disease mechanisms, and plays a key role in education and quality control of laboratory procedures. Common limitations include artifacts from fixation and processing, sampling error, and interpretation subjectivity, all of which are mitigated by standardized protocols and expert review.