Which staining technique allows differentiation of mycobacterial cells?

• A. Acid-fast staining
• B. Hematoxylin and eosin staining
• C. Silver staining
• D. Gram staining

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of staining techniques: Staining techniques are used to differentiate and identify various types of cells and microorganisms based on their structural and chemical properties.
2. Learn about mycobacteria: Mycobacteria are a group of bacteria characterized by a waxy cell wall, which makes them resistant to many common staining techniques.
3. Explore the acid-fast staining technique: Acid-fast staining is specifically designed to identify mycobacteria. It uses a dye that penetrates the waxy cell wall, allowing these bacteria to retain the dye even after being washed with an acid-alcohol solution.
4. Compare with other staining techniques: Hematoxylin and eosin staining is used for general tissue staining, silver staining is often used for fungi and certain bacteria, and Gram staining differentiates bacteria into Gram-positive and Gram-negative based on cell wall properties.
5. Conclude why acid-fast staining is suitable: Due to the unique cell wall structure of mycobacteria, acid-fast staining is the most effective technique for differentiating these cells from others.