It is important to keep cytology samples and unstained slides away from which substance so that the samples can be stained properly later?

It is important to keep cytology samples and unstained slides away from which substance so that the samples can be stained properly later?

• A. Acetone
• B. Ether
• C. Formalin
• D. Saline

Answer: (C)

Staining works best when cells remain unfixed or are fixed only with compatible methods. Formalin is a strong fixative that cross-links proteins, locking cellular components in place and masking stainable sites. This alteration interferes with how dyes bind, producing poor staining and distorted morphology. Because of this, cytology samples and unstained slides should be kept away from formalin so they can be stained properly later. Saline is inert and won’t fix, while acetone and ether are solvents that can affect cells but aren’t the same persistent fixative issue as formalin.

Staining works best when cells remain unfixed or are fixed only with compatible methods. Formalin is a strong fixative that cross-links proteins, locking cellular components in place and masking stainable sites. This alteration interferes with how dyes bind, producing poor staining and distorted morphology. Because of this, cytology samples and unstained slides should be kept away from formalin so they can be stained properly later. Saline is inert and won’t fix, while acetone and ether are solvents that can affect cells but aren’t the same persistent fixative issue as formalin.