Properties of Embedding Media in Histopathology

What is the reason for discouraging the use of celloidin in histopathology?

What is the process called when tissues are first embedded or fully infiltrated with a supporting medium, then infiltrated a second time with wax?

What is the temperature range at which paraffin wax should be held for embedding?

What is the primary application of gelatin in histopathology?

What is the purpose of a cold plate in the embedding process?

What is the purpose of a mold in the embedding process?

What is the role of a paraffin dispenser in the embedding process?

What is the purpose of agar in double embedding?

What is the significance of a cassette in the embedding process?

What is the characteristic of paraffin wax that makes it suitable for embedding?

Celloidin Use in Histopathology

Celloidin is discouraged due to its long processing time and tendency to shrink and distort tissue.

Double Embedding

Double embedding involves infiltrating tissues with a supporting medium like gelatin or agar, followed by infiltration with wax.

Paraffin Wax Temperature

Paraffin wax should be maintained at a temperature range of 55-60°C during embedding.

Gelatin in Histopathology

Gelatin is primarily used for embedding delicate tissues like brain and eyes. Due to its low melting point, it allows for the embedding of delicate structures without distortion.

Cold Plate in Embedding

The cold plate is used to quickly solidify the paraffin wax around the tissue, preventing distortion and allowing for precise alignment.

Mold in Embedding

The mold acts as a container for the tissue block, providing a standardized shape and size for the tissue block, making it easier to section.

Paraffin Dispenser

The paraffin dispenser maintains the temperature of the paraffin wax and facilitates efficient and accurate dispensing of the molten wax during embedding.

Agar in Double Embedding

Agar is often used as the initial supporting medium in double embedding because it provides a firm framework for delicate tissues, preventing distortion during the subsequent wax infiltration.

Cassette in Embedding

The cassette is used to hold the tissue during processing and embedding, allowing for straightforward identification and tracking of the specimen.

Paraffin Wax Suitability

Paraffin wax is suitable for embedding because it has a relatively low melting point, allowing for easy infiltration and sectioning of tissues. Additionally, it is relatively inert and does not react with most tissue components.

Learn about the ideal properties of embedding media, including solubility, melting point, and transparency, and discover the characteristics of paraffin wax, a popular embedding medium in histopathology. Understand the importance of each property in histopathology. Test your knowledge of embedding media and their applications.