The IEM techniques in immunodermatology

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the use of immunoelectron microscopy (IEM) techniques in immunodermatology. Good results with IEM in immunodermatological studies can be obtained when both strong labeling of surface markers and optimal preservation of the tissue occur. Unfortunately, in reactive or tumoral cutaneous diseases, the tissue is damaged by the process itself and sometimes superficial antigens can be destroyed. From the technical point of view, the best results in IEM studies are obtained when there is strong labeling of positive cells in a well-preserved tissue. It is believed that for the clear detection of intracytoplasmic organelles, the specimens should be left unfrozen and the sections fixed immediately after cutting and before the immune procedures. Tissue fixation is undoubtly critical for the best results: strong fixation allows good preservation, but specific immunostaining is weak, and vice versa.