Paraffin Blocks (Histopathology Processing)

Function

Paraffin blocks are a critical step in the histopathological examination of tissue samples removed during surgery or biopsy. The process involves 'embedding' the tissue in paraffin wax, which provides a rigid support structure. This allows pathologists to cut extremely thin slices (microns thick) of the tissue, which are then placed on glass slides, stained, and examined under a microscope.

Why it is Ordered

This is not a diagnostic test in itself but a fundamental processing requirement for:

• Cancer Diagnosis: Determining if a tumor is benign or malignant.
• Inflammatory Diseases: Identifying the cause of organ dysfunction or chronic inflammation.
• Archiving: Paraffin blocks are stable for decades, allowing for retrospective studies or second opinions years after the initial procedure.
• Molecular Testing: Modern techniques like Immunohistochemistry (IHC) or DNA/RNA extraction for personalized medicine are performed directly on sections from these blocks.

Associated Conditions

• Oncology: All suspected cancers require paraffin embedding for definitive grading and staging.
• Gastroenterology: Biopsies from endoscopies (e.g., Celiac disease, H. pylori).
• Dermatology: Skin lesions and moles requiring microscopic evaluation.