A histological diagnosis is typically made through a series of steps involving the collection, preparation, and examination of tissue samples. The process usually includes the following key stages:
Sample Collection: Tissue samples are collected via biopsies or surgical resections. Fixation: The samples are preserved using fixatives like formalin to prevent degradation. Embedding: The fixed tissues are embedded in a medium like paraffin to facilitate slicing. Sectioning: Thin slices of the embedded tissue are cut using a microtome. Staining: The tissue sections are stained with dyes such as hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) to highlight different cell structures. Microscopic Examination: The stained sections are examined under a microscope by a histopathologist to identify any abnormalities.