Role of immunofluorescence and electron microscopy in the evaluation of renal biopsies in nephrotic syndrome in a developing country.

To determine the role of immunofluorescence (IF) and electron microscopy (EM) in the evaluation of renal biopsies in a developing country, the authors carried out a study in 200 patients with nephrotic syndrome. Renal biopsies were studied by light microscopy, IF, and EM. IF study was useful in all, being essential in 23.5% and helpful in remaining cases. EM was useful in 94.5% cases, being essential in 43% and helpful in 51.5% cases. The results demonstrate that IF and EM are essential in the evaluation of renal biopsies in nephrotic syndrome and these should be employed in the pathologic evaluation of renal biopsies.