Electron microscopic study of infantile renal biopsy specimens

Out of 54 open renal biopsies performed on children, 17 were selected and studied not only by light microscopy but also by electron microscopy. Statistical-mathematical analysis of basement membrane thickness-measurements was carried out. It is concluded that electron microscopic investigation of the renal biopsy material is required in selected cases involving diagnostic or therapeutic problems. In nephrotic syndrome it may help above all to separate minimal changes from early forms or glomerular lesion of the focal sclerosing type. Electron microscopy can also be useful in any of the mono- and oligosymptomatic renal diseases. In those cases only electron microscopy makes it possible to provide exact morphological diagnosis which is necessary to the proper therapy.