Which stain is used to selectively identify phospholipids in myeloid cells?

The Sudan Black B stain is specifically designed to identify phospholipids in myeloid cells. This staining technique is based on the selective staining properties of lipids, allowing for the visualization of phagocytic cells and certain types of granulocytes. In myeloid cells, which include types such as neutrophils and monocytes, phospholipids are prevalent in cellular membranes and organelles. By using Sudan Black B, pathologists can highlight these components effectively, which assists in diagnosing and understanding various hematological conditions.

The other stains mentioned do not serve this specific purpose. For instance, PAS is generally used to detect polysaccharides and glycoproteins, while myeloperoxidase targets peroxidase activity in myeloid cells, serving a different function. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) is utilized in identifying certain types of lymphoid cells and is not relevant for staining phospholipids in myeloid cells. Thus, the specificity of the Sudan Black B stain for lipid components uniquely qualifies it for identifying phospholipids in the context of myeloid cell staining.