The toluidine blue staining protocol is typically used to detect changes in mast cells due to various allergic reactions. Mast cells are located throughout the connective tissues and respond to allergens by releasing their contents (histamine and heparin granules) into the surrounding tissue, producing a response. These conditions could range from simple allergic reactions in the skin to coronary inflammation, interstitial cystitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
