Histology is an integral part of medical and research laboratories. Patients depend on histochemical staining for diagnostic and prognostic information about their specimens. In addition, research facilities utilize histochemistry for a variety of purposes, including specimen analysis of tissues from humans, rodents, and other animals. Identification of these samples is crucial, as mix-ups can result in the loss of the specimen or even a misdiagnosis, with a high risk of harm to the patient.

To combat human errors during sample processing, sophisticated identification systems are utilized, most often consisting of barcode labels and scanners. One of the key challenges posed by histochemical processing is labeling cassettes used during formalin fixation, dehydration, and paraffin wax embedding, prior to sectionning and slide staining. However, labels affixed to cassettes will peel or detach during histochemical procedures, especially when immersed in xylene for a lengthy period. This has resulted in histology labs either identifying cassettes by manually inscribing them using a pencil or using costly cassette printers to accurately and securely identify tissue cassettes. Both these approaches present their own unique drawbacks, not representing a truly efficient, cost-effective solution. Most recently, however, the launch of patented HistoBAR™ cassettes has offered a new, more inexpensive solution to this problem, allowing cassettes to finally be safely labeled.

Keeping Labels Stuck to Histology Cassettes

In order to keep labels affixed to histology cassettes, HistoBAR cassettes “lock” them in place. HistoBAR achieves this with a unique design whereby the lid encloses the label, ensuring the integrity of the printed information throughout processing. Specially designed patent pending xylene and chemical-resistant XyliTUFF™ labels are available in a size specifically adapted to this purpose. This ensures the label does not fail and the printout does not fade or smudge.

Ultimately, HistoBAR helps keep your laboratory’s identification system running smoothly and efficiently by ensuring all samples are tracked and traced from reception to analysis, without the need for any additional investments in equipment or material. Data security is of the utmost importance, especially for labs processing patient specimens. Thus, it is essential to implement the most reliable methods of sample identification possible, avoid errors, and provide accuracy and dependability to histochemical workflows.

Benefits:

• Integrated, detachable lid
• Compatible with standard molds, storage, and processing equipment
• Replaces tedious hand-writing of cassettes
• Economical alternative to dedicated on-cassette printers
• Available in a variety of colors