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High-resolution light microscopy for interpretation of renal biopsies

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Abstract

Routine transmission electron microscopy is recommended for all renal biopsies. However, most of the diagnostic lesions in renal pathology are 0.2 μm or larger, and are therefore visible by light microscopy. These lesions are difficult to evaluate in paraffin sections due to problems inherent in the method itself. Full utilization of the resolving power of the light microscope or high-resolution light microscopy is possible with resin (plastic) histotechnology. The replacement of conventional histotechnology by epoxy histotechnology allows the visualization of most subcellular structures needed for accurate diagnosis in renal pathology. Electron microscopy remains a very helpful tool for selected morphological problems.

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  1. Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service, Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Pathology, Louisiana State University Medical Center, 1901 Perdido Street, 70112-1393, New Orleans, LA, USA

    Ernesto O. Hoffmann

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  1. Ernesto O. Hoffmann
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Hoffmann, E.O. High-resolution light microscopy for interpretation of renal biopsies. Pediatr Nephrol 9, 763–769 (1995). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00868738

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00868738

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