Scanning electron microscopy

The technology of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is described in brief. Its application to the study of cell and tissue structure is demonstrated and the evolution of the concept of 'topographical histology' is discussed. Some current literature on the applications of SEM is reviewed under the headings of experimental pathology and human pathology. While SEM has become an indispensable technique for the experimental morphologist, its application to diagnostic pathology and cytology is still at an early exploratory stage.