 The
electron microscope is a diagnostic tool used to give a two-dimensional
image of a thinly sliced tissue specimen. Samples are carefully
examined and photographed for ultra-structural changes that can
be of diagnostic significance. Transmission EM yields results
with both high magnification and high resolution, where the electrons
scatter through the sample to reveal areas of varying contrast
based on their density properties. Information regarding cellular
morphology, composition, and crystallography is readily available
via electron microscopy, providing pathologists advanced means
to evaluate disease.
Invaluable for the diagnosis of unknown primary neoplasms in
malignant tissues, electron microscopy has become the standard
of care for evaluation of diagnostic renal biopsies.
For more information click here:
- Microscopy & Imaging Resources
- Microscopy Society of America
Specimen Collection for Electron Microscope
- Mince the fresh specimen into approximately
one cubic millimeter pieces.
- Place minced specimen in fresh 3% glutaraldehyde
in a small glass vial labeled with unique identifier.
- Send the specimen immediately to the Electron
Microscope Dept. at Sharp Pathology Laboratory along with a
completed requisition slip. If the specimen is not sent immediately,
it must be kept in a refrigerator at 4 degrees Celsius.
- The minced specimen should remain in 3% glutaraldehyde
for at least two hours at 4 degrees Celsius for proper fixation.
- Make sure that the 3% glutaraldehyde is no
more than 60 days old and that it is always kept in a refrigerator
at 4 degrees Celsius.
- For fresh 3% glutaraldehyde, glass vials, or
questions about this procedure, call Robert at 619.295.0964.
December, 1999
|
