ASCP Tissue Processing

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of fixation in tissue processing?

Accepted Answer

To prevent autolysis and preserve tissue morphology

Answer

To dehydrate tissue for embedding

Answer

To remove lipids from tissue

Answer

To decalcify bone specimens

Question 2

Which fixative is considered the gold standard for routine histological processing?

Accepted Answer

10% neutral buffered formalin

Answer

Bouin's solution

Answer

Zenker's fixative

Answer

Glutaraldehyde

Question 3

What is the purpose of the dehydration step in tissue processing?

Accepted Answer

To remove water before infiltration with paraffin

Answer

To remove fixative residue

Answer

To enhance nuclear staining

Answer

To clear pigments from tissue

Question 4

Which reagent is commonly used as a clearing agent to remove alcohol before paraffin infiltration?

Accepted Answer

Xylene

Answer

Acetone

Answer

Ethanol

Answer

Methanol

Question 5

What processing artifact results from inadequate fixation before processing?

Accepted Answer

Autolysis

Answer

Chatter artifact

Answer

Retraction artifact

Answer

Folding artifact

Question 6

What is the recommended tissue thickness for routine formalin fixation to ensure adequate penetration?

Accepted Answer

5–10 mm

Answer

1–3 mm

Answer

15–20 mm

Answer

20–25 mm