Pas Staining of Human Temporal Bones

Abstract

PAS staining by the McManus method was used in studying human temporal bones fixed in kaformacet (Wiitmaack's solution) of formalin 10% and decalcinated in Kristensen's buffer solution consisting of equal parts 8 n formic acid and 1 n sodium formiate. The sustentacular tissue of the labyrinth was well-preserved and so were the tectorial membrane, cupulae, and maculae acousticae. The basement membranes of the epithelium, the vascular walls of all calibres, from arteries and veins to capillaries, were also well-preserved. The method appears to be applicable to human material in the study of changes affecting the vascular walls of the labyrinth.