Electron Microscopic Features of Canalicular Concretions
Mohammad Javed Ali1,2, Jens Heichel3, Swati Singh1
1Institute of Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany.
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|March 3, 2020
Summary
Electron microscopy revealed three microbial subtypes in canalicular concretions from canaliculiths patients. These findings enhance understanding of canaliculiths formation and potential resistance mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Electron Microscopy
Background:
- Canaliculiths are a condition affecting the tear drainage system.
- Understanding the composition of canalicular concretions is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural characteristics of canalicular concretions using electron microscopy.
- To identify microbial components within these concretions.
Main Methods:
- Canalicular concretions were obtained from 10 patients with canaliculiths.
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were employed for ultrastructural analysis.
- Multiple ultrathin sections were examined using standard protocols.
Main Results:
- Three distinct types of canalicular concretions were identified: coccoid/bacilloid, filamentous, and mixed.
- Filamentous subtypes, comprising 50% of samples, exhibited a honeycomb pattern formed by Actinomyces.
- TEM confirmed the presence of Actinomyces and other bacteria, with no observed immune cells or blood products.
Conclusions:
- Ultrastructural analysis revealed three distinct microbial subtypes within canalicular concretions.
- These findings contribute to understanding the etiopathogenesis of canaliculiths.
- The results suggest potential structural resistance to host defenses or antibiotics.
