[Diagnostic transmission electron microscopy].
BACKGROUND
Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is an important diagnostic tool in surgical pathology.


METHODS
We give an overview, based on our own experience, of the application of TEM in diagnostic pathology.


RESULTS
In spite of its potential for high-grade resolution, the actual use of TEM in diagnostic pathology is rather limited. TEM is mandatory in the examination of kidney and muscle biopsies and is often indicated when a metabolic disease is suspected. However, in many centres its importance in tumour pathology has declined because of the advances in the field of immunohistochemistry. TEM requires a great deal of resources and high levels of skills in tissue processing and diagnostic interpretation.


CONCLUSIONS
The TEM diagnosis must be integrated with light microscopical and, often, immunohistopathological findings, as well as with the clinical data. We therefore recommend close collaboration between the clinician and the laboratory with regard to biopsy indication, handling of samples, and the final diagnosis.
Sund
S
S
Avdeling for patologi, Rikshospitalet, 0027 Oslo. stale.sund@rikshospitalet.no
Lindal
S
S
Larsen
A M
AM
Bostad
L
L
Reinholt
F P
FP
D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney / Q000648:ultrastructure; D017348:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning Transmission / Q000379:methods; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000648:ultrastructure; D009135:Muscular Diseases / Q000473:pathology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000648:ultrastructure; D009468:Neuromuscular Diseases / Q000473:pathology