Find HS Code and trade information for pathological section box

Pathological Section Box

A pathological section box, commonly referred to as a cassette, is a crucial component in the process of histopathology – the microscopic study of diseased tissue. It serves as a container for tissue specimens during processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining.

Material:

• Plastic: Predominantly made from polypropylene, due to its resistance to the chemicals used in tissue processing (formalin, alcohols, xylene, etc.). Some specialized cassettes may utilize other polymers for specific applications.
• Metal: Historically, metal cassettes were used, but plastic has largely replaced them due to advantages in weight, cost, and compatibility with automated processing equipment.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of a pathological section box is to:

• Contain and Protect: Securely hold the tissue specimen throughout the often harsh steps of processing.
• Identify: Provide a designated space for labeling with patient identifiers and tissue information, ensuring correct tracking and correlation of slides with clinical data.
• Facilitate Processing: Allow for efficient immersion in fluids during dehydration, clearing, and infiltration.
• Support Embedding: Provide a stable mold for paraffin embedding, which is essential for sectioning.
• Enable Sectioning: Offer a firm base for the microtome to cut thin sections of tissue for microscopic examination.

Function:

The box doesn't actively perform a function on the tissue itself. It's a passive container that enables the functions performed by the various reagents and equipment in the histopathology workflow. Its design is optimized to:

• Minimize Tissue Distortion: Internal features and lid design prevent tissue from adhering to the cassette walls, preserving morphology.
• Ensure Fluid Penetration: Openings allow for complete immersion in processing fluids.
• Prevent Loss of Specimen: Secure lid mechanisms prevent tissue from escaping during processing.
• Maintain Orientation: Some cassettes feature internal markings to aid in proper tissue orientation during embedding.

Usage Scenarios:

Pathological section boxes are used in virtually all histopathology laboratories, including:

• Hospital Pathology Departments: Processing biopsies and surgical specimens for diagnosis.
• Reference Laboratories: Analyzing tissue samples submitted from various clinics and hospitals.
• Research Laboratories: Preparing tissue for experimental studies.
• Veterinary Pathology: Diagnosing diseases in animals.
• Forensic Pathology: Examining tissue samples in legal investigations.

Common Types:

• Standard Cassettes: Most common type, available in various sizes to accommodate different tissue volumes.
• Embedding Cassettes: Designed specifically for embedding, often with a wider opening for easier paraffin infiltration.
• Processing Cassettes: Optimized for automated tissue processors, with features to ensure proper fluid flow.
• Pop-Open Cassettes: Feature a hinged lid that automatically opens for easy tissue retrieval.
• Color-Coded Cassettes: Used to differentiate tissue types or patient samples.
• Cassettes with Tissue Orientation Markings: Help maintain correct tissue orientation during embedding and sectioning.

Pathological section boxes are categorized under Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914. Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 3926909910: This HS code covers Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Other Laboratory ware.
  • 39: Chapter 39 covers plastics and articles thereof.
  • 26: Heading 3926 specifically relates to other articles of plastics and articles thereof.
  • 90: Subheading 392690 covers other articles.
  • 99: Further specifies "Other Laboratory ware". This is the most applicable code for pathological section boxes, assuming they are used in a laboratory setting.

Regarding HS code 3926909910, the total tax rate is 42.8%, comprised of a base tariff of 5.3% and an additional tariff of 7.5%, with a further additional tariff of 30.0% applied after April 2, 2025.