Carnoy solution

Carnoy solution is a chemical fixative and cauterizing agent originally developed by Jean-Baptiste Carnoy in the 19th century. The classic formulation consists of 60% ethanol, 30% chloroform, and 10% glacial acetic acid by volume, with some variants including ferric chloride. It is primarily used in histology for rapid fixation of tissues—especially for preserving glycogen and nucleic acids—and as a topical chemical cauterant after surgical removal of cysts or tumors (notably odontogenic keratocysts and ameloblastomas) to reduce recurrence rates. Its mechanism involves protein coagulation leading to superficial tissue necrosis at the application site[1][2][3][4][5]. Modified versions without chloroform are sometimes used due to concerns about chloroform’s carcinogenicity[3][5].

Brand names

Carnoy solution

Other names

Carnoy's solutionCarnoy fixative