Abstract
The traditional histology method typically employed by forensic anthropologists involves plastic embedding of undecalcified bone. The embedded sample is then cut by a diamond blade saw and ground to the required thickness of ~50-100 microns using a grinder. There are several limitations to this method: Cement lines may be blurred; depth-of-field artifacts may result from viewing thick sections; and medicolegal offices with limited budgets may not be able to invest in additional equipment or training for this method. A silver nitrate stain modification of the standard histology preparation technique of decalcified bone is presented. The benefits of this technique are that: Cement lines are viewed clearly; no depth-of-field artifacts are present; and because this is a modification of the standard technique used by histology laboratories typically employed by medicolegal offices, no additional equipment or training is required.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 391-398 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Journal of Forensic Sciences |
Volume | 60 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Mar 1 2015 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Bone histology
- Cement lines
- Forensic anthropology
- Forensic science
- Silver nitrate stain
- Slide preparation method
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pathology and Forensic Medicine
- Genetics