Qualitative Evaluation of Carbopol-940 Gel Used as a Preservative Medium Compared to Traditional Modified Kaiserling III Solution in Pathology Museum

Abstract

Introduction:  Body organs and tissue specimens have been preserved in human and veterinary anatomy, pathology museums for years in traditional modified Kaiserling III solution. Wax embedding, epoxy-resin embedding and Plastination techniques have also been tried. However, the use of Carbopol-940 gel as a preservative medium is not mentioned in the literature. Gel preservative medium can prevent leakage, toxic vapors, and irritation of eyes and skin.  Aims: Qualitative evaluation of carbopol-940 gel as a preservative medium for specimens in pathology museums compared to modified Kaiserling III solution over one year. Objectives:  1) To qualitatively evaluate physical integrity of mounted tissue specimens stored in Kaiserling III solution and carbopol-940 gel for one year.  2)  To qualitatively evaluate physical, chemical and microbiological parameters of Kaiserling III solution and carbopol-940 gel for one year. Materials and methods: In this qualitative cross-sectional study, different organs were mounted in jars containing modified Kaiserling III solution and carbopol-940 gel.  The media were monitored for stability by physical tests, chemical test, and microbiological test, before and after the study. The organs were monitored for physical disintegration by observing for tissue shredding. Specimens were histologically assessed before and after the study for tissue integrity. Results showed good stability of the preservative media and good tissue integrity of the specimens over a period of one year.