Formalinefixatie

Formalinefixatie is a chemical process used in biology and medicine to preserve biological tissues. It involves immersing tissue samples in a solution of formaldehyde, typically diluted in water. Formaldehyde is an aldehyde that reacts with proteins in the tissue, forming cross-links. These cross-links stabilize the tissue's structure and prevent the degradation that would occur due to autolysis (self-digestion by enzymes within the cells) and putrefaction (decomposition by bacteria).

The primary purpose of formalijnfixatie is to maintain the morphological integrity of the tissue, making it suitable for subsequent examination. This is crucial for microscopic analysis, such as histology, where the detailed structure of cells and tissues needs to be preserved. It is also a vital step for many diagnostic procedures, including biopsies and surgical specimens, allowing pathologists to identify abnormalities and diseases.

The concentration of formaldehyde used, the duration of fixation, and the volume of fixative relative to the tissue sample size are important factors that influence the effectiveness of the fixation process. Incomplete fixation can lead to poor preservation and artifacts, while over-fixation can sometimes damage tissue components, making them difficult to interpret. After fixation, tissues are typically processed further, often involving dehydration, embedding in paraffin wax, and sectioning for microscopic viewing. Formaldehyde is a hazardous chemical, and proper safety precautions, including good ventilation and personal protective equipment, are necessary when handling it.