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Questions and Answers
What is fixation?
The preservation of biological tissues from decay due to autolysis or putrefaction, terminating ongoing biochemical reactions.
What are some types of fixatives?
What is Carnoy's solution composed of?
60% ethanol, 30% chloroform, 10% glacial acetic acid, and 1 gram of ferric chloride.
What is grossing?
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Grossing is only performed by pathologists.
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What should be done to specimens to ensure proper fixation?
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What thickness should thin slices of specimen be prepared to?
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It is advisable to use blunt blades for dissection.
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Specimens should be handled on a clean surface to avoid cross-contamination.
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What is the consequence of overloading cassettes?
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Cassettes should always be clearly labeled.
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Study Notes
Fixation in Histology
- Fixation preserves biological tissues from decay (autolysis or putrefaction).
- It stops biochemical reactions and can strengthen tissues.
- Fixatives vary: aqueous, non-aqueous, additive, non-additive, and compound (multiple chemicals).
- Example: Carnoy's solution (60% ethanol, 30% chloroform, 10% glacial acetic acid, 1g ferric chloride).
Grossing (Gross Examination)
- Visual inspection of tissue samples with the naked eye for diagnostic information.
- Steps include measuring, describing (size, color, consistency), inking margins, selecting areas for slides, dissection, and cassette placement.
- Performed at grossing stations—well-ventilated workspaces requiring PPE (personal protective equipment) to minimize formaldehyde inhalation.
Best Practices in Tissue Handling
- Fixation status: Handle specimens promptly, especially large ones, to ensure adequate fixation. Underfixed specimens will not process correctly.
- Thin slicing: Prepare uniform, thin slices (3-4 mm max thickness), especially with dense tissues.
- Trauma avoidance: Handle delicate, incompletely fixed specimens carefully to avoid trauma, using sharp blades.
- Cross-contamination avoidance: Use clean surfaces between specimens to prevent cross-contamination, particularly important with malignant tissues.
- Cassette selection: Choose appropriate cassettes to prevent tissue fragments from escaping or contaminating other specimens.
- Cassette loading: Avoid overloading cassettes to allow reagent access and prevent specimen distortion. Use multiple cassettes if necessary.
- Cassette labeling: Clearly label cassettes for accurate specimen identification.
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Description
This quiz covers essential techniques in histology, focusing on fixation and gross examination of biological tissues. Learn the importance of fixation, types of fixatives, and best practices for tissue handling in the laboratory. Test your knowledge on the procedures involved in grossing and the significance of these techniques in histopathology.
