Modified Silver Impregnation Method for Basal Membranes in Renal Biopsies

Silver impregnation methods are essential in biopsy interpretation in nephropathology with regard to visualizing the basal lamina and its associated changes. The most widely used methods, mainly Jones methenamine impregnation, are time-consuming in their protocols and require multiple microscopy control points. In this report, we propose an alternative, modified method for silver impregnation with methenamine solution with a significantly shorter protocol time and good staining quality, allowing for proper interpretation of basal lamina changes in the glomeruli and blood vessels. Furthermore, unlike some other modified techniques, our proposed protocol does not include microwaving of the solutions but rather a thermostat is used, thereby reducing fire hazards. Implementing the protocol in our everyday practice has reduced sample processing time while not negatively impacting biopsy interpretation.