Efficacy of stereomicroscope as an aid in grossing and histopathological diagnosis

Objectives: The histopathological analysis of tissues is regarded as the gold standard for identifying lesions. The macroscopic examination of the tissue material is critical to making an accurate histological diagnosis. Grossing is regarded as a necessary but frequently overlooked process in histology. An accurate grossing method reduces errors while also providing useful information about the specimen for a definitive diagnosis. Stereomicroscopic examination of specimens may assist pathologists in providing vital information about the nature of the specimen, which may aid in the correct orientation of the specimen and arriving at the correct diagnosis. With this background, a study was conducted to evaluate the role of stereomicroscope in routine grossing and its contribution to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 70 samples of the patients sent to the Department of Oral Pathology, Government Dental College and Hospital, Srinagar. Specimens received were properly labeled and fixed in 10% neutral-buffered formalin for 24 h. All the specimens were observed under the naked eye and stereomicroscope (Radical RXLr-5), where we could appreciate the surface details of the tissue. Based on the stereomicroscopic evidence, they were embedded. The sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and observed under a compound microscope. Results: Compared to the naked eye, the stereomicroscopic observation of specimens showed better details, which helped in the proper orientation of the specimen and aided in the accurate diagnosis. Conclusion: The stereomicroscope acts as an adjuvant for the proper orientation of the specimen, which helps in arriving at an accurate final diagnosis.