Fixative properties of honey in comparison with formalin

Abstract

Fixation is an initial and important step in tissue processing for microscopical examination. The primary aim of fixation is to preserve the tissues in a life-like state, prevent bacterial putrefaction, prevent autolysis, and increase the refractive index of the tissue. The present study used a natural fixative instead of chemicals in order to prevent the deleterious effects of the chemical fixatives. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of honey as a fixative, which is a natural product. A double-blind pilot study was conducted in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology with the consent of patients who were visiting the hospital for other dental problems. A total of 30 specimens were taken, fixed using formalin and honey for 24 hours and then subjected to routine processing. The tissues were then stained with hematoxylin and eosin and were subjected to evaluation. Student's t-test was performed and analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Science version 17 software. The numerical scores were graded from 1 to 4 and the mean standard deviation was calculated. The results showed statistically significant differences between honey and formalin samples for both nuclear details and cytoplasmic staining. Honey, as a tissue fixative, is easily available with no known toxicity and can be used as an alternative to formalin. However, studies should be done further to find methods to eliminate the disadvantages, such as homogenization, seen with the connective tissue. Furthermore, studies with large sample sizes are required to obtain more conclusive results.