Fixative used for bone histopathology is?
**Core Concept**
In bone histopathology, a fixative is used to preserve the structure of the bone tissue, allowing for accurate examination and diagnosis of various bone disorders. The fixative must effectively crosslink proteins, preserve cellular architecture, and prevent autolysis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct fixative used in bone histopathology is formalin, which is a 10% solution of formaldehyde in water. Formalin effectively crosslinks proteins, preserving the cellular architecture and preventing autolysis. It also helps to fix the bone matrix, making it suitable for histological examination. The formaldehyde in formalin reacts with the amino groups of proteins, forming stable bonds that preserve the tissue structure.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Ethanol is a fixative used in some histological specimens, but it is not suitable for bone histopathology as it does not effectively crosslink proteins and can lead to tissue shrinkage.
**Option B:** Acetone is a fixative used in some cytological specimens, but it is not suitable for bone histopathology as it can cause tissue dehydration and lead to artifactual changes.
**Option C:** Glutaraldehyde is a fixative used in some electron microscopy specimens, but it is not suitable for bone histopathology as it can cause tissue hardening and lead to artifacts.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to use a fixative that is specifically designed for bone histopathology to ensure accurate diagnosis and minimize artifacts. Formalin is the gold standard fixative for bone histopathology, and its use is widely accepted in the field.
**Correct Answer:** D. Formalin.