Zenker solution can decalcify needle biopsy of bone marrow. Which statement best reflects this property?

• A. Zenker solution can decalcify needle biopsy of bone marrow
• B. Zenker solution cannot decalcify any tissue
• C. Zenker solution decalcifies only long bones
• D. Zenker solution is not used for decalcification

Answer: (A)

Decalcification can occur when mineralized tissue is exposed to acidic conditions long enough. Zenker's solution is a fixative that contains an acidic component, so if a bone-containing needle biopsy from bone marrow sits in it for an extended period, the calcium salts in any bone trabeculae can be dissolved. That means the sample can become decalcified under those conditions, which is why this statement is considered the best reflection of the property: Zenker solution can decalcify needle biopsy of bone marrow.

In practice, decalcification is usually performed with dedicated decalcifying agents after fixation to control the process and preserve tissue morphology, rather than relying on a fixative alone. The other options imply absolute limitations (never decalcify, decalcify only long bones, or not used for decalcification) that aren’t accurate given the acidic component in Zenker’s fixative.