How Does OCT Compound Compare to Paraffin Embedding?
OCT compound and paraffin embedding serve similar purposes but differ significantly in their applications. Paraffin embedding involves dehydrating the tissue and infiltrating it with paraffin, which is then solidified. This method is suitable for long-term preservation and allows for a wide range of staining techniques. However, it is more time-consuming and may cause shrinkage or hardening of the tissue. In contrast, OCT compound is quicker and better preserves the natural state of the tissue, making it ideal for immediate analysis but less suitable for long-term storage.
