Final answer:
Renal biopsies in Alport syndrome reveal abnormalities in the glomerular basement membrane with a lamellated appearance, progression to renal failure, and microscopic features include irregular basement membrane thickness with electron microscopy showing a basket-weave pattern.
Step-by-step explanation:
Renal biopsy findings in Alport syndrome often reveal characteristic glomerular basement membrane abnormalities with a lamellated appearance. These changes are due to genetic mutations affecting type IV collagen, a major component of the basement membrane. Over time, patients with Alport syndrome may develop progressive kidney disease leading to renal failure.
The microscopic features typically include thinning and thickening of the basement membrane and splitting of the lamina densa. On electron microscopy, a basket-weave appearance is often noted. Immunofluorescence usually does not show deposition of immunoglobulins or complement. These findings are important for distinguishing Alport syndrome from other forms of glomerulonephritis. Moreover, symptoms such as hematuria and proteinuria are commonly present.