Electron micrograph of postinfectious glomerulonephritis

Electron micrograph shows subepithelial deposits (D) with a semilunar, hump-shaped appearance in postinfectious glomerulonephritis. The humps sit on top of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM). A neutrophil is attached to the denuded GBM, contributing to the glomerular inflammation. Neutrophil attraction requires the initial presence of subepithelial immune deposits so that complement chemoattractants have access to the systemic circulation.

Electron micrograph of a normal glomerular capillary loop showing the fenestrated endothelial cell (Endo), the glomerular basement membrane (GBM), and the epithelial cells with its interdigitating foot processes (arrow). The GBM is thin, and no electron-dense deposits are present. Two normal platelets are seen in the capillary lumen.