Agar-Paraffin Double Embedding Over Conventional Embedding for Minute Oral Biopsies- Cohort Study

doi:10.37506/ijfmt.v14i1.18

Abstract

Agar-Paraffin double embedding technique is a simple technique that combines the advantages of both the embedding material. It preserves the minute tissue biopsies in orientation and holds them together from getting lost. Oral biopsies, being most commonly small incisional tissues, have to be preserved all through the processing and embedding to ensure optimal visualization of all the mucosal layers without compromise. In the present study, samples were divided into two groups: Group A: Agar-paraffin double embedding (APE) and Group B: conventional paraffin embedding (PE). Tissue samples collected were sectioned into two approximately equal sized bits. Both the bits were simultaneously processed, embedded in two different techniques (APE and PE method). Sections obtained were scored by an observer and analyzed using independent sample t-test (SPSS software version 21) to evaluate the efficacy of agar-paraffin double embedding technique in comparison to the conventional paraffin embedding technique. Agar paraffin embedded tissue was found to be well processed, firm and well preserved. Orientation was comparatively easier and the blocks yielded sections of good quality. They showed no interference with staining and cell morphology was of good clarity. Thus Agar-paraffin embedding technique represents a simple, reliable method that can greatly improve the quality of diagnostic information.

Highlights

Agar-Paraffin double embedding refers to the technique whereby the tissue is first impregnated with agar and subsequently blocked in Paraffin to combine the advantages of both the embedding media [1]
Agar paraffin Embedding technique has helped to overcome this problem as the fresh tissue has already been embedded in agar before processing
Agar had not interfered with the penetration of fixative or processing chemical reagents, all the Agar-paraffin double embedding (APE) tissues were well processed

Summary

Introduction

Agar-Paraffin double embedding refers to the technique whereby the tissue is first impregnated with agar and subsequently blocked in Paraffin to combine the advantages of both the embedding media [1]. Use of Agar-Paraffin embedding for small specimens in routine surgical pathology was first reported in 1959, which was developed further by Herbert Z Lund in 1961[2]. Agarformalin solution to aggregate fragments of tissues prior to paraffin embedding was described by Cook and Hotchkiss in 1977 [3]. Oral mucosal biopsies, being the small incisional ones, in common instances poses frequent problem in appropriate orientation. Proper visualization of mucosal layers is most necessary to accurate diagnosis. Agar-Paraffin double embedding holds numerous advantages, it remains little used technique in oral pathology laboratory

Methods

Results

Conclusion