Zenker fixative contains formaldehyde, mercuric chloride, and potassium dichromate.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. It contains formaldehyde and potassium dichromate only
• D. It contains mercuric chloride and acetic acid

Answer: (B)

Zenker fixative is a mercury-containing fixative whose components are mercuric chloride, potassium dichromate, and acetic acid in water. Formaldehyde is not part of Zenker’s formulation; it is characteristic of formalin-based fixatives. So stating that Zenker fixative contains formaldehyde, mercuric chloride, and potassium dichromate is not correct. The presence of mercuric chloride and potassium dichromate provides strong fixation and nuclear detail, while acetic acid aids preservation of certain tissue components.