Minimizing Artifacts in Tissue Processing: Part 1. Importance of Softening Agents

A routine pathology laboratory requires that selected tissue samples in a wide range of sizes from a vast array of organ systems be batch processed. This lack of homogeneity can lead to improper or overprocessing. The use of a softening agent following coarse trimming not only facilitated the cutting process but also provided improved microanatomical detail. Successive soaks in Horne's modified Baker solution (addition of phenol) and Mollifex (a commercial mixture of glycerin, phenol derivative, acetone, and alcohol) gave most satisfactory results. (The J Histotechnol 15:321, 1992)