Immuno-lectin histochemistry and ultrastructure in two cases of globoid cell leukodystrophy (Krabbe's disease)

Two cases of globoid cell leukodystrophy (Krabbe's disease) have been studied by means of conventional histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural methods. Lectins specific for several different carbohydrates, Ricinus communis (RCA-1), peanut agglutinin (PNA), wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) and Concanavalin A (Con A) have been utilized both at optical and ultrastructural level. In both cases a strong positive labeling of the globoid cells could be observed light-microscopically. Ultrastructurally immunogold deposits only of RCA-I and WGA in the typical Krabbe's inclusions have been clearly demonstrated.