HTL 512 - Histotechnology

2 Credit Hours
This course focuses on the laboratory skills required to function in a clinical or research histology facility including specimen acquisition and fixation, tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining. Paraffin based techniques with Hematoxylin and Eosin/special stains are introduced. Essential laboratory calculations and problem-solving approaches are presented. The student is expected to gain experience in cryomicrotomy (frozen section) and microtomy. The student is introduced to the fundamental principles and mechanical steps of immunohistochemistry. Chemical and environmental safety issues are covered in depth and emphasized. Proper record-keeping practices including quality control and quality assurance requirements are also reinforced. Responsible lab management procedures are emphasized including essential inventory control concerns, as well as instrumentation, care, quality assurance and maintenance.