HT Microtomy & Staining

Question 1

What is the purpose of microtomy in histology?

Accepted Answer

To cut tissue into thin slices for viewing under a microscope.

Answer

Microtomy is the specialized process of cutting extremely thin sections of embedded tissue using a microtome. This step is essential because tissues need to be thin enough for light to pass through them, allowing for detailed microscopic examination of cellular and architectural features. Without microtomy, the internal structures of the tissue would not be visible or interpretable under a microscope.

Question 2

Which of the following factors affects the quality of tissue sections during microtomy?

Accepted Answer

The cutting speed and knife quality.

Answer

The quality of tissue sections during microtomy is significantly influenced by the cutting speed and the sharpness and quality of the microtome knife (blade). An optimal cutting speed prevents chatter or compression artifacts, while a sharp, high-quality knife ensures smooth, even sections without tears or nicks. These factors directly impact the clarity and integrity of the final slide for diagnosis.

Question 3

What is the most common method of tissue staining in histology?

Accepted Answer

Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain

Answer

Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) is the most widely used and fundamental staining method in histology for routine diagnostic purposes. It provides excellent morphological detail, with hematoxylin staining nuclei blue/purple and eosin staining cytoplasm and extracellular matrix pink/red. This combination allows pathologists to easily identify different tissue types and cellular abnormalities, making it indispensable.

Question 4

What does hematoxylin stain in tissue samples?

Accepted Answer

Nuclei

Answer

Hematoxylin is a basic dye that has an affinity for acidic components within the cell. In tissue samples, the most prominent acidic structures are the nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) found within the cell nuclei. Therefore, hematoxylin stains the nuclei a distinct blue or purple color, making them easily identifiable and allowing for assessment of nuclear morphology.

Question 5

Which of the following stains is commonly used for demonstrating collagen fibers?

Accepted Answer

Masson's trichrome

Answer

Masson's trichrome is a classic special stain specifically designed to differentiate collagen fibers from other tissue components. It typically stains collagen blue or green, nuclei dark brown/black, and cytoplasm/muscle red. This stain is invaluable for assessing fibrosis, connective tissue disorders, and muscle pathology, providing crucial diagnostic information.

(HT) Histotechnician Certification Practice Test

(HT) Histotechnician Certification Practice Test

HT Microtomy & Staining