What is the color associated with collagen when properly stained?

The color associated with collagen when properly stained is red, particularly when using techniques such as Masson’s trichrome stain. In this staining method, collagen fibers are selectively stained red, distinguishing them from other tissues in histological preparations. This color contrast is crucial for pathologists and histotechnologists to identify and assess tissue architecture effectively.

In addition to Masson’s trichrome stain, other staining techniques, like the Picrosirius red stain, also emphasize collagen's red hue under polarized light, highlighting its presence and structure. Understanding these staining results is important for diagnosing various diseases, as collagen is a primary component of connective tissues and its alteration can indicate pathological changes.