[Specificity of histochemical reactions to melanin]

The data on complex histochemical and electron histochemical investigation reflecting specificity of the reactions applied in histochemical practice to reveal melanin are represented. Various ultrastructural localization of the substance is demonstrated both with silver and iron use (this demonstrate nonspecificity of the reactions mentioned above to melanin). Ultrastructures possessing affinity to the metal ions involved are detected; possible mechanisms of interaction between silver and iron with different cellular elements are suggested.