Digital image capture applied to electron microscopic examination of renal biopsies.
OBJECTIVE
Digital image capture systems to replace traditional film cameras are now available for most electron microscopes. For a diagnostic electron microscope laboratory the test of this new technology is in its application to the examination of renal biopsy specimens.


METHODS
A long-term comparison is made between the work procedures employed with conventional film photography versus digital image capture in routine renal biopsy examination.


RESULTS
Digital image capture has lead to a reduction in turnaround time and allows for more images to be collected per case, providing more diagnostic information. Ultrastructural measurement is made easier, accuracy of patient records is improved and electronic communication of results is more accessible. Significant operational cost savings are also possible.


CONCLUSIONS
A quicker and more comprehensive assessment of renal biopsy specimens is possible using digital image capture for ultrastructural examination.
Killingsworth
Murray C
MC
Department of Anatomical Pathology, South Western Area Pathology Service, Sydney, NSW, Australia. Murray.Killingsworth@swsahs.nsw.gov.au
Yong
Jim L
JL
D001706:Biopsy; D006801:Humans; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000473:pathology*; D007678:Kidney Glomerulus / Q000648:ultrastructure; D008854:Microscopy, Electron / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D010781:Photography / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D012815:Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted