Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) is a specialized technique for the study of the ultrastructural detail of cells, tissues and organisms. TEM allows visual confirmation of specific subcellular structural abnormalities engendered by various diseases. The method also facilitates accurate identification of cell types, alterations in cell organelle structure and distribution, as well as characterization of abnormal cellular inclusions, to name a few. Information gleaned from TEM helps in refining histological diagnosis and predicting possible abnormalities in cell function. Any tissue/cell can be examined in this way, but results are optimized with tissue-specific preparation. At All Children’s hospital, TEM is utilized for many diseases including tumors, metabolic disorders and in-born errors of metabolism, neuromuscular diseases, renal disorders, infection (especially viral) diseases and others. In addition, biopsies for evaluating functional aspects of structures through the demonstration of ultrastructural abnormalities are also examined by TEM.

The laboratory is equipped with a JEOL 1210 Transmission Electron Microscope that is interfaced with the Internet to extend digital imaging capabilities of an AMT eleven Megapixel XR611/111 camera. Ultramicrotomes and tissue processors are employed for the sample preparation.

Laboratory Personnel

Scientist & Unit Director: Peter O. Steele, Ph.D., Biological Sciences; Diplomate Laboratory Management, American Society for Clinical Pathology. Professional Member of the International Academy of Cytology.

Laboratory Hours

Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Specimen Requirements

• Consultation by Attending Pathologist is required when planning the biopsy to ensure that tissue is appropriately harvested / stored / fixed.
• Specimens arriving at the Lab without this consultation may be held as EM Block Only.
• The biopsy sample must be prepared for transport or shipping as soon as possible. 
• Clinical history, indications for study, working diagnoses, and documentation of other studies in progress must accompany specimen.
• Please also send an H&E of tissue or tumor specimens along with current pathology report if from the outside.

Billings

The charges for professional and technical services are institutional only, i.e., no third party billing can be performed.

Turn-around Time

Turn around time is dependent on the specimen type, complexity and associated histological evaluations if any. Interpretations are in the form of a surgical pathology report issued by the Attending Pathologist. 

Contact Information:

Histology LAB: 727-767-3058
Scientist: Peter O. Steele, Ph.D.
Phone: 727-767-4465
E-mail: [email protected]
Fax: 767-767-8516