The process of histopathological examination involves several steps:
1. Sample Collection Tissue samples are collected through biopsy or surgery. The sample must be handled carefully to avoid any damage that could affect the diagnosis.
2. Fixation The tissue is preserved using fixatives such as formalin to prevent decay and maintain cellular structure. This step is crucial for obtaining accurate results.
3. Tissue Processing Once fixed, the tissue is processed to remove water and replace it with a medium like paraffin wax, which provides support for thin sectioning.
4. Sectioning The paraffin-embedded tissue is then cut into thin sections using a microtome. These sections are placed on glass slides for staining.
5. Staining Tissue sections are stained to highlight different structures. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) is the most common staining method, but special stains and immunohistochemical techniques may also be used.
6. Microscopic Examination A pathologist examines the stained tissue under a microscope to identify any abnormalities. This analysis forms the basis for the histopathological report.
