We have two fixatives that we routinely use for breast and/or lymph
nodes in fatty tissue

Fixative for lymph nodes in fatty tissue:
Absolute ethanol	2500 mL
37% formaldehyde	400 mL
Glacial acetic acid	250 mL
Distilled water		850 mL
Fixation time;	overnight (lymph nodes will show up as white nodules)

Rapid Fixative for Breast Tissue
37% formaldehyde	150 mL
Isopropyl alcohol	850 mL
Fixation time:	2-4 hours

I hope this helps

Karen MacLennan, BLT, ART
Unit Manager Histology/Cytology
Regina Health District
Regina Sask.  Canada
306-766-2311

> ----------
> From: 	Terrett, Barb[SMTP:Barb_Terrett@pmh.toronto.on.ca]
> Sent: 	Wednesday, May 05, 1999 1:00 PM
> To: 	'histonet@pathology.swmed.edu'
> Subject: 	Fixation for breast tissue
> 
> I was wondering if there is anyone who uses a fixative for breast
> tissue
> that is comprised of formalin, alcohol and/or acetic acid.  We are
> looking
> for something that fixes fatty tissue better than buffered formalin.
> If
> you have such a fixative, could you share the recipe with us.   Also,
> does
> this fixative have any negative effects on immuno staining, in
> particular
> estrogen and progesterone receptors.
> 
> Thank you.   Sandra via Barb!
>