The VVG staining method is useful in demonstrating atrophy of elastic tissue. Elastic tissue atrophy, the wasting away of elastic tissue, can be caused by arteriosclerotic changes and other vascular diseases. The VVG staining method is also useful in the identification of normal elastic fibers/tissues, such as arteries and veins in an effort to determine tumor invasion. Evidence of tumor metastasis (the development of secondary cancer at a distance from the primary tumor) can change treatment plans and affect prognosis.