Which component does Cytospray typically consist of?

Cytospray is a fixative commonly used in cytology and histology to preserve cellular structures for microscopic examination. The correct formulation of Cytospray typically consists of 95% alcohol and 2% carbowax.

The alcohol in this mixture serves as a dehydrating agent, helping to preserve the cellular morphology by preventing the degradation of cellular structures. The role of carbowax (polyethylene glycol) is to provide additional support to the cellular components, allowing for better visualization under the microscope after the samples have been prepared and stained.

This specific combination is effective because it strikes a suitable balance between sufficient fixation provided by the alcohol and the supportive properties offered by the carbowax, which prevents the cells from becoming overly dehydrated or distorted during the preparation process. Understanding this composition is crucial for ensuring optimal sample preservation and visualization in laboratory settings.