[Predictive value of electron microscopy studies in virological diagnosis]

Abstract

The negative staining techniques in transmission electron microscopy have been used as a routine tool in viral diagnosis since 30 years. In a short review, different preparation techniques, fields of application, advantages and disadvantages of electron microscopy in rapid diagnostic are discussed. The application of electron microscopy depends on availability of other more effective methods. Some viruses, specially in faecal samples, are identifiable only by electron microscopy till now. Sensitivity and specificity are improved by immune electron microscopy comprising suspension, immunosorbent and immunogold techniques. Using rapid embedding techniques, ultrahistology is a valuable tool in identifying viruses in biopsy samples, too.