Periodic acid-Schiff reaction
Period acid-Schiff reaction (PAS) has long-been established as the single best histochemical stain for the diagnosis of onychomycosis and other forms of superficial mycosis. We at Bako Pathology Services certainly use this reaction to identify such infectious elements; however, we also recognize the need to provide clinicians with additional pertinent information with regard to the organism and its growth. In many instances, such information could directly impact the drug of choice for medical management. In addition to allowing for the visualization of fungal elements, PAS reaction and routine-stained sections offer important clues with regard to non-infectious nail pathology. We believe the characterization of such non-nail pathology is paramount for appropriate patient management.
