What is the appearance of renal tubular epithelial (RTE) cells in nephrotic syndrome?

In nephrotic syndrome, renal tubular epithelial (RTE) cells exhibit a characteristic appearance that is often described as cuboidal and in large sheets. This is due to the injury and dysfunction of the renal tubules that occurs during the syndrome. The structural integrity of these tubular cells is compromised, leading to the shedding of RTE cells into the urine in a more intact form, which is why they may be seen in large clusters or sheets.

The cuboidal shape reflects the nature of these epithelial cells that line the renal tubules, and their size is usually larger when they are sloughed off in response to tubular damage caused by nephrotic syndrome. Recognizing this appearance is significant in diagnosing and understanding the underlying pathology of nephrotic syndrome and related conditions.

The other options do not accurately describe the typical morphology of RTE cells in nephrotic syndrome, making them less relevant in this context. Understanding the unique features of these cells can help in the interpretation of urine microscopy findings associated with renal pathologies.