Tissue Fixation
In regards to tissue fixation, ischaemic time refers to:
Tissue Fixation
- Definition: A process that preserves tissue morphology and prevents autolysis and putrefaction.
- Stop enzyme degradation (autolysis)
- Prevent bacterial decomposition (putrefaction)
- Preserve cellular architecture for microscopy
- Autolysis: Self-digestion of cells by their own enzymes after death — begins within minutes; lysosomes release enzymes that destroy cell components.
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What our notes say
- In regards to tissue fixation, ischaemic time refers to: (Medical MCQs: Chemical Pathology & Haematology Exam Review)
- Tissue Fixation — The process of treating tissue with a chemical agent (e.g., formalin) to preserve cellular/tissue structure, prevent autolysis and putrefaction, and stabilize the specimen for processing. (Cytopathology vs Histopathology CAT: Definitions & Lab Basics)
Study material on Tissue Fixation
Practice questions on Tissue Fixation
A 52-year-old woman undergoes a breast biopsy. The tissue specimen is immediately placed in 10% formalin before processing. What is the primary purpose of tissue fixation?
- To remove calcium salts from tissue
- To preserve tissue architecture and prevent autolysis
- To increase tissue transparency
- To facilitate paraffin embedding only
- To enhance nuclear staining exclusively ✅ Answer: B
Answer: A. Fixation stabilizes proteins and prevents enzymatic degradation (autolysis) and bacterial decomposition (putrefaction), thus preserving tissue structure.