How can renal tubular epithelial cells be identified under a microscope?

Renal tubular epithelial cells can be identified under a microscope primarily by their specific size and shape. These cells have a characteristic morphology that distinguishes them from other cell types found in urinary sediments. For example, they typically have a cuboidal or columnar shape, which reflects their function in the renal tubules. This morphological detail is vital for pathologists and laboratory technicians when performing microscopic examinations of urine samples.

While other factors such as color and response to stains can help in identifying cell types in general, they are not as definitive as size and shape for renal tubular epithelial cells specifically. Location in the body is also not a reliable identification method in the context of examining urine samples, as it refers to the cell's origin rather than their appearance in sediment. Thus, relying on the specific size and shape of the cells allows for accurate identification and diagnosis in the context of urinary analysis.