Question

Which fixative is ideal for fixing tissue sections cut by a cryostat?

• A. Formalin
• B. Alcohol
• C. Acetone
• D. Bouin's Fixative

Hint:

{Acetone} is commonly used for {cryostat (frozen) tissue sections} because it fixes tissue rapidly and preserves antigenic structures.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: A cryostat is a device used in histology to cut thin sections of frozen tissue for rapid microscopic examination. These frozen sections require quick fixation to preserve cellular structure and prevent tissue degradation. Acetone is commonly used as a fixative for cryostat sections because it acts rapidly and preserves antigenicity, which is important for immunohistochemistry.
Step 1: Identify the fixative suitable for frozen sections.

• Formalin – Common fixative for routine paraffin sections.
• Alcohol – Used in cytology and some histological preparations.
• Acetone – Ideal rapid fixative for cryostat (frozen) sections.
• Bouin's Fixative – Used for specific histological tissues but not frozen sections.

Therefore, the correct answer is Acetone.