Szövetblokkok

Szövetblokkok, often translated as tissue blocks, are paraffin-embedded samples of biological tissue used in histology and pathology. These blocks are created by processing tissue specimens, typically biopsies or surgical resections, through a series of steps that include fixation, dehydration, clearing, and infiltration with molten paraffin wax. The infiltrated tissue is then embedded in a mold filled with paraffin wax, which solidifies upon cooling to form a solid block containing the tissue.

The primary purpose of creating tissue blocks is to preserve the tissue structure for microscopic examination. The paraffin wax provides support, allowing thin sections to be cut from the tissue without distortion. These thin sections, typically only a few micrometers thick, are then mounted onto glass slides, deparaffinized, and stained with various dyes, such as hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), to visualize cellular and tissue components. Pathologists use these stained slides to diagnose diseases, identify abnormalities, and study the effects of treatment.

Tissue blocks are invaluable for long-term storage and archiving. They can be stored for decades, allowing for retrospective studies, re-examination of cases, and the potential for future molecular analyses, such as immunohistochemistry or genetic testing. The standardization of tissue processing and embedding ensures that the morphology of the tissue is well-preserved, making tissue blocks a cornerstone of modern diagnostic pathology and biomedical research. The precise methodology of preparing and storing these blocks is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sample over time.