If moth holes are observed in a tissue, what is the most likely cause?

Study for the CAMLPR Histology Practice Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

If moth holes are observed in a tissue, what is the most likely cause?

The main issue here is how the tissue is being cut during microtomy. When a section is cut too thick and the knife is pushed through with too much force, the tissue can’t shear cleanly. The blade effectively gouges into soft areas of the tissue, leaving small round gaps that look like moth holes in the ribbon. So the artifact arises from cutting too thick and applying excessive pressure, rather than from blade condition or processing steps. If the blade were dull, you’d see rough edges and tearing along lines, not clean holes. An incorrect water bath temperature tends to cause sections to wrinkle or curl rather than produce discrete perforations. If the block isn’t thawed, it’s too hard and would crack or resist cutting in a different way.

The main issue here is how the tissue is being cut during microtomy. When a section is cut too thick and the knife is pushed through with too much force, the tissue can’t shear cleanly. The blade effectively gouges into soft areas of the tissue, leaving small round gaps that look like moth holes in the ribbon. So the artifact arises from cutting too thick and applying excessive pressure, rather than from blade condition or processing steps.

If the blade were dull, you’d see rough edges and tearing along lines, not clean holes. An incorrect water bath temperature tends to cause sections to wrinkle or curl rather than produce discrete perforations. If the block isn’t thawed, it’s too hard and would crack or resist cutting in a different way.

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