Fixative


Fixative: A medium such as a solution or spray that preserves specimens of tissues or cells. Most biopsies and specimens removed at surgery are fixed in a solution such as formalin (dilute formaldehyde) before further processing takes place. Other common ingredients used in fixatives are alcohol, mercuric chloride, potassium dichromate and sodium sulfate.

“Fixative” is derived from the Latin “figere” (to fix, fasten, make stable). Related English words include “fixture” (that which remains stable and in place) and “fixity” (state of being stable, steady, permanent).

Read Also:

  • FGD1

    FGD1: The faciodigitogenital dysplasia gene. FGD1 normally plays an essential role in embryonic development. Mutations in FGD1 result in faciodigitogenital dysplasia, which is also called the Aarskog-Scott syndrome.

  • Flat affect

    Flat affect: A severe reduction in emotional expressiveness. People with depression and schizophrenia often show flat affect. A person with schizophrenia may not show the signs of normal emotion, perhaps may speak in a monotonous voice, have diminished facial expressions, and appear extremely apathetic. Also known as blunted affect.

  • Flat condyloma

    Flat condyloma: A manifestation of the secondary stage of syphilis that takes the form of broad flat wartlike growths in moist creased areas, as around the anus and external genitalia. Also called condyloma latum.

  • Flat feet

    Flat feet: Absence of an arch in the sole of the foot that causes the foot to lie flat when the person is standing. All babies have flat feet because their arches are not yet built up (and their feet tend to be plump). This condition may persist into adulthood, or an arch may form […]

  • Flatfeet

    Flatfeet: A condition of the feet in which the arch of the instep is flattened and the entire sole touches the ground. The Latin term pes plans is used to denote flat foot. All babies have flat feet because their arches are not yet built up (and their feet tend to be plump). This condition […]


Disclaimer: Fixative definition / meaning should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional. All content on this website is for informational purposes only.