LXXVII Architecture of the Otolith End Organ: Some Functional Considerations

Both the maculae of the otolith end organs and the cristae of the semicircular canals are mechanically stimulated in living individuals; therefore, it is important to know the relationship between the otolithic membrane, or the cupula, and the adjacent sensory epithelia in histological preparations. The otolithic membrane is, however, extremely fragile and will be destroyed easily by poor fixation, tonic change, inadequate temperature, strong chemicals, et cetera. The routine technique of temporal bone preparation for light microscopy usually includes the use of a strong fixative and a decalcifier from the acid group; therefore, the structural preservation of the otolithic membrane in histological slides is usually uncertain. Shrinkage or agglomeration of these structures most commonly appears after using the routine procedure.