High resolution light microscopy in renal pathology

Seven hundred renal specimens embedded in epoxy resins and stained with polychromatic stains were compared with paraffin sections stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (H & E), Perodic and Schiff, (PAS), silver, and trichrome stains. High resolution of light microscopy, never in wax histopathology, may be obtained by the use of plastic embedding and polychromatic stains. Cell boundaries, intracellular organelles, basement membranes, different cellular types, apposition of different substances, and other pathologic changes were readily recognized in a single P + P (Plastic section stained with Polychromatic stains) section, whereas paraffin sections usually needed special stains. The same plastic block may be used for transmission electron microscopy. Slightly elevated cost, special training of the technician and pathologist, and some few remaining technical difficulties are the disadvantages of this method. High resolution light microscopy methods are recommended for routine renal biopsies.