Renal biopsy pathology uses both H&E and special stains to interpret renal biopsy specimens. H&E is the primary stain, providing essential information on morphology and tissue structures. Special stains are crucial when H&E doesn’t provide all the necessary details, with techniques varying based on sample type and disease category. These methods range from traditional tinctorial techniques to histochemical and immunocytochemical approaches, depending on the disease and testing organisation.

Rationale

The Renal Biopsy scheme evaluates specialised methods by assessing archival surgical stained sections using 5 routine renal staining techniques. A suitable biopsy must include renal cortex to demonstrate glomerular basement membranes for accurate assessment. Participants should submit diagnostic slides from a recently processed native renal biopsy, ensuring the slides reflect the case and routine work quality, without being cut or recut specifically for EQA submission.

Submission

 5 archival specialist stained sections, as designated on the delivery letter. The submissions must contain material from a suitable native renal biopsy.

Results Reporting

• Individualised Results Report
• Participation Certificate
• Annual Report