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Decalcification of Bony and Hard Tissue for Histopathology Processing

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Basic and Advanced Laboratory Techniques in Histopathology and Cytology

Abstract

This chapter discusses the method of decalcification of bony and hard tissue for histopathology processing. Decalcification technique helps to remove calcium salt from the tissue without affecting the morphology of the tissue and staining. Removal of calcium salt can be done with the help of acid, chelating agents, ion-exchange resin and electrolysis method. The relative advantages and disadvantages of various decalcification methods have also been discussed in this chapter. The end point of decalcification process is determined by radiographic test, chemical test and physical method. Any successful decalcification of tissue depends on the assessment of consistency of the tissue, volume of the tissue, proper washing and fixation of tissue. In addition, right selection of decalcifying agent and exact determination of the end point of decalcification process are also important.

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Reference

  1. Skinner RA, Hickmon SG, Lumpkin CK, et al. Decalcified bone: twenty years of successful specimen management. J Histotechnol. 1997;20:267–77.

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Dey, P. (2018). Decalcification of Bony and Hard Tissue for Histopathology Processing. In: Basic and Advanced Laboratory Techniques in Histopathology and Cytology. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-8252-8_4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-8252-8_4

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Singapore

  • Print ISBN: 978-981-10-8251-1

  • Online ISBN: 978-981-10-8252-8

  • eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)

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