Zenker solution preserves erythrocytes.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Both
• D. Neither

Answer: (B)

Zenker solution does not preserve erythrocytes. It is a mercuric chloride–based fixative that also contains acetic acid. The acetic acid component causes red blood cell membranes to become unstable and lyse, so intact erythrocytes are not preserved in tissue sections fixed with Zenker. While the fixative can good preserve tissue architecture and nuclear detail, it destroys the red cells, making the statement false. If preservation of erythrocytes is needed, different fixatives without strong acidic components are preferred.