Tissue Processing Flashcards
6 cards from real ASCP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Tissue Processing flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of fixation in tissue processing?
Answer: To prevent autolysis and preserve tissue morphology
Fixation prevents autolysis and microbial decomposition by cross-linking proteins to preserve tissue architecture.
Which fixative is considered the gold standard for routine histological processing?
Answer: 10% neutral buffered formalin
10% neutral buffered formalin is the standard fixative because it preserves morphology well and is compatible with most downstream staining techniques.
What is the purpose of the dehydration step in tissue processing?
Answer: To remove water before infiltration with paraffin
Dehydration removes water from tissue using ascending grades of alcohol so the tissue can be infiltrated with paraffin wax.
Which reagent is commonly used as a clearing agent to remove alcohol before paraffin infiltration?
Answer: Xylene
Xylene is miscible with both alcohol and paraffin, making it the standard clearing agent in tissue processing.
What processing artifact results from inadequate fixation before processing?
Answer: Autolysis
Inadequate fixation allows continued enzymatic activity, leading to autolysis and degraded tissue morphology.
What is the recommended tissue thickness for routine formalin fixation to ensure adequate penetration?
Answer: 5–10 mm
Tissue sections of 5–10 mm allow adequate formalin penetration within the recommended fixation time.