Modified Alizarin Red S and Modified Silver Nitrate Methods for Calcium Demonstration

Abstract

A modified alizarin red S and a silver nitrate method for the demonstration of calcium are described. In the alizarin red S method, isopropyl alcohol is used to dehydrate the sections, thus minimizing the solubility of the calcium lake. The sensitive silver method, based on sensitization and physical development, demonstrates minute traces of calcium deposits mainly in the form of phosphates and is comparable to the alizarin red S. (J Histotechnol 12:225, 1989).

Keywords:

• Calcium deposits
• dye-metal complex
• metal substitution technique
• silver impregnation