Fixing solutions

10% buffered formalin - universal fixing agent

20% buffered formalin

Bouin solution

Picric acid, acetic acid, formalin
Universal fixing agent, topographically also decalcifying - especially used for preserving soft and delicate structures. It is extemporaneously prepared by mixing two solutions. The parts are slightly shrunk (2,5%). It does not preserve fats, condriome, Golgi apparatus and is not recommended for hematopoetic organs.

Carnoy mixture

Absolute ethanol, chloroform, acetic acid, formalin
Recommended for fixing the nuclei, glycogen, nucleic acids and Nissl granulations as well as for some histochemical reactions

Davidson fixing agent

Paraformaldehyde in phosphate buffer
Universal fixing agent. It is used also as perfusion solution for animals.

Helly mixture

Corrosive sublimate, potassium dichromate
Cytological and topographic fixing agent. Especially recommended for hematopoetic organs - bone marrow, lever, spleen. The fixing agent allows the usual colorations but the over-fixing must be avoided.

Susa solution

Corrosive sublimate, trichloroacetic, sodium chloride, acetic acid, formalin
Topographic fixing agent with an excellent penetration recommended for fiber-type structures, nuclei

Zenker solution

Corrosive sublimate, potassium dichromate, acetic acid
Recommended for glandular parenchyma, hematopoetic organs and connective tissues.