FFPE
Pronunciation: eff-eff-pee-ee
Also written as: FFPE — Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded
Acronym for Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded; describes the standard method of preserving and storing tissue specimens for histopathological analysis.
Full Definition
FFPE refers to the two-step preparation method in which tissue is first fixed in formalin and subsequently embedded in paraffin wax to form a solid block suitable for long-term storage and sectioning. FFPE blocks are the workhorse of diagnostic pathology and can be stored for decades, enabling retrospective studies and additional testing. However, formalin fixation causes nucleic acid fragmentation and cross-linking, which can complicate molecular and genomic analyses. Editors frequently encounter this acronym in pathology reports, clinical trial protocols, and biobanking documents; it should always be rendered in full capitals without periods.
Usage
Usage note: Always render as 'FFPE' in full caps. When used as a modifier, hyphenate: 'FFPE-derived DNA.' The full form requires internal hyphens and commas as shown.
In Context
- "Next-generation sequencing was performed on DNA extracted from FFPE tumor blocks archived over the preceding five years." — Oncology research report
- "The biobank holds more than 10,000 FFPE blocks catalogued by tissue type and year of collection." — Biobank catalog document