RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Immunofluorescence of immunoglobulins and complement in kidneys taken at necropsy. JF Journal of Clinical Pathology JO J Clin Pathol FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Association of Clinical Pathologists SP 1211 OP 1214 DO 10.1136/jcp.42.11.1211 VO 42 IS 11 A1 J Varis A1 I Rantala A1 A Pasternack YR 1989 UL http://jcp.bmj.com/content/42/11/1211.abstract AB The immunofluorescence of immunoglobulins and complement components in kidney specimens taken at necropsy was investigated to determine the persistence of antigenicity of immune reactants. Of 74 consecutive necropsies, 12 cases had positive glomerular fluorescence. The pattern and intensity were followed up for up to 15 days. Along with necropsy specimens, tissue samples of normal looking kidney from 14 nephrectomies were also studied. Two of these specimens turned out to be positive in the immediate immunofluorescence study. To rule out possible false positive staining after death immunofluorescence findings in all nephrectomy specimens were followed up for up to 19 days. The presence of immunoglobulins and complement could be shown for between 12 and 15 days after death; no changes in immunofluorescence findings occurred during this period. It is concluded that immunofluorescence provides valuable information when immunologically mediated reactions need to be clarified in necropsy kidneys.