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Abstract
A method for softening refractory paraffin-embedded specimens by trimming the block to just expose the tissue and soaking in solutions of wetting agents (detergents) is recommended. Paraffin blocks are soaked several hours to overnight in 1% aqueous solutions of either new Dreft, sodium lauryl sulfate, Aerosol OT, Glim, or Joy. Excellent sections of rat skin, cartilage, wood and chitin were obtained after soaking. Ribboning and spreading were improved. The method did not improve sectioning of tissue embedded in nitrocellulose when the blocks were stored in 70% alcohol before cutting.