Periodic acid 1 % in ethanol 70 % is known in medical and histological diagnostics as an oxidizing agent for tissue samples. Due to its strong oxidizing properties, periodic acid leads to the selective oxidation of various organic compounds in tissue samples. The effect of this solution manifests itself in improved visibility and differentiation of certain cell structures under the microscope, which allows for more accurate diagnosis.

Chemically, the solution consists of periodic acid dissolved in a mixture of ethanol and water. The periodic acid acts as an oxidizing agent, while ethanol and water act as solvents. The presence of ethanol in the solution promotes tissue penetration and thus improves the efficiency of oxidation.