EDTA decalcifying solution 5 %

The 5% EDTA decalcifying solution is used in histology and pathology to prepare bone and calcified tissue specimens for microscopic examination. EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) is a chelating agent that selectively removes calcium ions from tissue to dissolve calcifications.

The 5% EDTA decalcifying solution is prepared by dissolving EDTA in water and adjusting to the desired pH. The lower concentration allows gentle decalcification of tissue specimens by extracting calcium ions from the tissue without affecting the morphological and cellular structures.

Because the concentration of the EDTA solution is lower than that of the 10%, 13%, 20%, or 25% solution, decalcification may take longer. The duration depends on the size and density of the sample and may take several days to weeks. The solution should be changed regularly to ensure efficient decalcification.

The 5% EDTA decalcification solution is specifically designed for professional use in histology and pathology laboratories and provides an effective and gentle method for preparing bone and calcified tissue specimens for microscopic examination. The solution is also suitable for decalcification of samples to be prepared for immunohistochemistry or in situ hybridization, as it largely preserves antigenicity and nucleic acids.