Which type of histological stain is typically used alongside hematoxylin for better contrast?

Hematoxylin is a commonly used histological stain that binds to nucleic acids, highlighting cell nuclei in a blue or purple color. To provide better contrast, eosin stain is often used in conjunction with hematoxylin. Eosin is an acidic dye that stains the cytoplasm and extracellular matrix in shades of pink, allowing for a clear differentiation between the nuclei and the surrounding tissues. The combination of these two stains, known as the H&E stain (hematoxylin and eosin), is one of the most widely utilized stains in histopathology as it provides a comprehensive view of tissue structure, cellular morphology, and pathological changes.

Giemsa stain, Sirius Red stain, and Masson's Trichrome stain serve specific, different purposes and are typically used for various types of tissue characterization or in particular diagnostic contexts rather than for general contrast enhancement with hematoxylin.