Comparison of staining of mitotic figures by h and e and crystal violet stains in odontogenic tumors with aggressive behaviour- a preliminary study

Background: Some odontogenic tumors are clinically benign but they are locally aggressive and recur. Therefore such lesions should be completely evaluated for their mitotic potential. Routine staining procedures often pose a problem in differentiating mitotic cells. Although various new methods have been recommended for identifying mitotic figures (MFs) in tissues, the time factor and cost makes them less feasible. Thus, an attempt was made to evaluate the efficacy of crystal violet in identifying MFs. Aim of the Study: 1) To compare various phases & number of mitotic cells in haematoxylin and eosin stain with that in crystal violet stain in odontogenic tumors with aggressive behaviour. Materials and Methods: This case control study included samples randomly selected from archives comprising of benign odontogenic tumors which behaved aggressively even though they were benign such as CEOC, PIOC, and Ameloblastoma etc. The control group comprised of squamous cell carcinoma & normal epithelium. Both the groups were stained with H and E stain and 1% crystal violet stain. The stained sections were observed under research microscope for identification of various phases of cell cycle and counting of MFs. Observations and Results: Data obtained was statistically analysed by using the two tail t test. Conclusion: Crystal violet stain could be considered as best stain to study mitotic figures in lesions with high proliferative potential.