Which processing step is specifically required for specimens like bone or teeth before routine processing?
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Correct answer: Decalcification
Calcified tissues must have their calcium salts removed (decalcification) using acids or chelating agents like EDTA. If not removed, the hard calcium deposits will damage the microtome knife and prevent thin sectioning.
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More Tissue Processing questions
- What is the effect of 'over-fixation' in formalin?
- Which reagent is used as a 'secondary fixative' for electron microscopy to provide high contrast?
- What is the primary advantage of using a vacuum during tissue processing?
- Which of the following fixatives contains picric acid and is excellent for preserving glycogen but causes significant shrinkage?
- What is the 'refractive index' (RI) and why is it relevant in the clearing step?
- In a routine overnight processing schedule, which stage is usually the longest?