HT Histology Techniques & Technology 2

Question 1

Which embedding medium is most commonly used for routine paraffin processing in histology?

Accepted Answer

Paraplast or similar paraffin wax blend

Answer

Paraplast and similar paraffin blends are the standard embedding media for routine formalin-fixed tissue in most histology laboratories.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of the clearing step in tissue processing?

Accepted Answer

To remove dehydrant and make tissue miscible with paraffin

Answer

Clearing agents (such as xylene) remove the dehydrating alcohol and render the tissue transparent and miscible with molten paraffin.

Question 3

A cryostat section is BEST suited for which of the following applications?

Accepted Answer

Intraoperative frozen section diagnosis

Answer

Cryostat sections are primarily used for intraoperative frozen sections because they can be prepared rapidly while the patient is still in surgery.

Question 4

Which instrument setting on a rotary microtome controls the thickness of each section?

Accepted Answer

Section thickness micrometer

Answer

The section thickness micrometer on a rotary microtome is the control that sets how many micrometers of tissue are advanced per revolution.

Question 5

What is the recommended knife angle (clearance angle) for paraffin sectioning with a steel knife on a rotary microtome?

Accepted Answer

5–8 degrees

Answer

A clearance angle of approximately 5–8 degrees is standard for paraffin sectioning and prevents the knife heel from dragging on the block face.

(HT) Histotechnician Certification Practice Test