ASCP Microtomy and Cryostat Techniques 2

Question 1

What is the embedding medium used for frozen sections in a cryostat?

Accepted Answer

OCT (Optimal Cutting Temperature) compound

Answer

OCT compound supports tissue during cryosectioning by providing a firm matrix without ice crystal artifact formation.

Question 2

What microtomy artifact is caused by a nick or defect in the cutting blade?

Accepted Answer

Score lines (linear streaks through the section)

Answer

A nicked or damaged blade creates linear streaks or score lines through the tissue section in the direction of cutting.

Question 3

Which of the following actions helps prevent tissue sections from folding during microtomy?

Accepted Answer

Chilling the block face on ice before cutting

Answer

Chilling the block face hardens the paraffin slightly, reducing the tendency for thin sections to fold or wrinkle during cutting.

Question 4

What is the angle of the blade (clearance angle) typically set to on a rotary microtome?

Accepted Answer

3–8°

Answer

A clearance angle of 3–8° prevents the blade back from dragging on the tissue block while still allowing clean sectioning.

Question 5

Which stain is most commonly used for rapid intraoperative frozen section evaluation?

Accepted Answer

Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)

Answer

H&E is the standard rapid stain for frozen sections because it provides quick nuclear and cytoplasmic contrast for diagnostic evaluation.

ASCP - Histotechnician Test Practice Test