Items for "phase-contrast microscopy"

How to improve the teaching of urine microscopy

Background: Urinary microscopy is difficult to teach. This paper describes a 1-day course on urine microscopy, which was based on both theoretical and practical sessions at the microscope, during which real urine samples were examined.

Methods: The course was based on: a) an introductory presentation with slides on the main components of urinary sediments and their clinical correlates; b) examination of fixed urine samples under the guidance of two experts; and c) the use of two microscopes, each equipped with a co-observation device for up to 15 observers.

Results: Throughout 2005, four courses were held in four Italian towns...

Keywords: phase-contrast microscopy, polarized-light microscopy, urinalysis, urinary sediment