An original technique for histological study of the human temporal bone

Abstract

An original technique for histological study of the human temporal bone is presented. It allows faster and better results than previous methods. It becomes obvious that the systematic study of the temporal bone may give important data in the field of pathology, foeto-pathology and forensic medicine.

Microwave Decalcification of Human Temporal Bones

“…Complete decalcification of human temporal bones in ethylenediaminetetra‐acetic acid (EDTA) generally requires from 4 to 7 months. 1–3 Attempts to expedite this process, using more acidic solutions such as 5% trichloroacetic acid, 3 5% nitric or formic acid, 4 or “RDO” (Dupage Kinetic Laboratories, Inc., Plainfield, IL) 5 have met with varying degrees of success. Although these compounds can significantly decrease decalcification times, their use can result in undesirable tissue damage, thus compromising tissue fine structure and possibly limiting immunohistochemical analysis.…”