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Pancreatic calculi containing brushite: ultrastructure and pathogenesis.
Calcified Tissue International
|November 1, 1986
Summary
Pancreatic calculi primarily contain calcite, with brushite found on outer surfaces. Brushite deposition is unexpected, suggesting a novel formation process involving calcite precipitation followed by brushite formation.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Mineralogy
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Pancreatic calculi are abnormal calcifications in the pancreas.
- The exact composition and formation mechanism of pancreatic calculi are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the mineralogical composition of pancreatic calculi.
- To investigate the formation process of pancreatic calculi, including the identification of novel components.
Main Methods:
- X-ray powder diffraction
- Scanning electron microscopy
Main Results:
- All analyzed pancreatic calculi contained calcite.
- Brushite (CaHPO4 X 2H2O) was identified on the outer surfaces of three calculi.
- Vaterite and aragonite were suggested as minor components in some stones.
Conclusions:
- Calcite precipitation is the primary event in pancreatic calculus formation.
- Brushite deposition on calculus surfaces is a newly identified phenomenon, likely occurring after duct occlusion and injury.