What are the steps involved in the standard histological processing of tissue?

The correct choice outlines the complete sequence of procedures typically followed in the standard histological processing of tissue. This process begins with grossing, where the tissue is examined and trimmed to appropriate sizes. Next, fixation is performed to preserve cellular structure and prevent autolysis or decay. After fixation, the tissue undergoes processing, which involves dehydration, clearing, and infiltration with a medium such as paraffin wax, which prepares the tissue for embedding.

Following processing, embedding occurs where the tissue is surrounded with the embedding medium, allowing for better support during sectioning. Once the tissue is fully embedded, sectioning is carried out using a microtome to produce thin slices of the tissue for microscopic examination. Finally, staining is performed to enhance the contrast of the tissue sections, allowing for better visualization of cellular structures under a microscope.

This thorough enumeration emphasizes all critical steps necessary for successful histological analysis, making it an essential understanding for histotechnologists.