A brief review of transmission electron microscopy and applications in pathology

This article is a brief overview of the use of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and its utilization in pathology. The report compares similarities with techniques and procedures that are commonly used in histology laboratories. Included is a brief historical perspective regarding the development of the electron microscope, some very basic principles, theories, and procedures that need to be addressed for suitable ultrastructural preservation of tissues, and the uses of TEM in a clinical laboratory setting. The article is not intended to be a comprehensive review article for instrumentation, sample preparation, or for utilization of the "tool" for patient management. However, some discussion is included regarding the demise of its role in diagnosis, including the constraints of government regulation. The use of TEM for diagnosis of renal and muscle diseases and of neoplastic processes is emphasized as well as potential future considerations that may employ the TEM as an important diagnostic tool.