Electron Microscopy

Also known as: EM.

What is electron microscopy?

An electron microscope is a powerful, much higher magnification (two million times!) type of microscope that uses electrons to create an image of a variety of cells, biopsy material, tissues (like kidney tissue) or other biological specimens.

What happens during the procedure?

Electron microscopy services are performed in a specialized laboratory for complete ultrastructural evaluation of samples collected from the body via other means, such as a biopsy, or blood samples. Results are sent to a pediatric pathologist for interpretation.

Is any special preparation needed?

No special preparation by the patient is needed for electron microscopy other than the collection of tissue to be examined.

What are the risk factors?

There are no risk factors related to electron microscopy.

Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:48 PM