Sweet orange (citrus sinensis) syrup as a potential routine fixative [author]: Firmeza, Verlie Jean S., Guanzon, Jojie Camille G., Lansangan, Jhullian Antonio B., Mendoza, Bianca Katrina G. Musico, Van Rowin F,, Rosales, Angela Clarke R., Tugado, Ma. Cristina J.

Includes Appendix

ABSTRACT
Introduction The fixation of tissues is critical in histopathology, achieved using formalin, a toxic and carcinogenic substance. The necessity for safer and environmentally friendly alternatives has led to the exploration of natural fixatives. Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) syrup, with its natural antibacterial, antioxidant, and tissue-preserving properties, presents a potential substitute. This
study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of sweet orange syrup as fixative compared to formalin. Primary objectives include assessing the syrup's ability to prevent autolysis and putrefaction, maintain staining quality, and preserve tissue morphology.
Methodology Experimental design was employed, using pork liver tissues divided into four groups:
standard 10% formalin, 60% sweet orange syrup, 80% sweet orange syrup, and distilled water. The tissues underwent fixation, processing, staining, and microscopic examination. Inferential statistics were used to compare the effectiveness of the fixatives.
Results: 60% sweet orange syrup showed comparable staining quality and nuclear detail preservation to formalin but failed to maintain cytoplasmic details and tissue hardening. The 80% syrup and distilled water were less effective overall. The sweet orange syrup's antibacterial properties were insufficient to prevent putrefaction as efficiently as formalin. While the 60% sweet
orange syrup demonstrated potential as a natural fixative (staining and nuclear detail preservation), its inconsistent performance in cytoplasmic detail preservation and tissue hardening limits its efficacy as a comprehensive fixative. Recommendation Further research is recommended to enhance the efficacy of sweet orange syrup, such as optimizing concentration and extraction methods to increase phenolic yield. Investigating fixatives' combination might provide more effective alternatives.
Keywords: Citrus sinensis, Fixative, Formalin, Histopathology, Tissue processing

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