Tissue Fixatives: A Review

Abstract

Fixation is the first or the foundation step of the histotechniques done  to preserve the tissues in as close a life like state as possible by preventing their autolysis and putrefaction .A number of fixatives exists, either having being in use for decades, or in the case of formaldehyde over a century. Every fixative has different properties, each indicated for a special purpose based on the type of cell component to be studied, the method of sectioning and staining employed and the type of microscopy involved. Thus, a pathologist must have a fair idea of the properties of these commonly available fixatives, so that a correct choice can be made depending upon the desired results. This review aims to give a brief overview of the commonly available fixatives with their merits and their demerits. The fixatives discussed are: a formaldehyde containing fixative-10% Formalin, a picric acid fixative-Bouin’s Fluid, an alcoholic fixative- Clarke’s Fluid and a mercury chloride containing fixative- Zenker’s Fluid.