Which property describes artifacts in histological sections?

Artifacts in histological sections are specifically described as errors introduced during sample processing. These can arise from a variety of factors, including improper fixation, dehydration, embedding, sectioning, or staining. Artifacts can distort the appearance of tissues, leading to misinterpretation of the cellular structures, which is particularly critical in diagnostic pathology.

Understanding that artifacts are not a natural part of the tissue is key. Unlike the biological components that constitute the tissue itself, artifacts are the result of procedural mishaps or variances in technique. This makes the identification of artifacts crucial, as their presence can compromise the accuracy of histological evaluations. Thus, recognizing that artifacts do not enhance the tissue's clarity or improve identification is essential for a histotechnologist in their practice.