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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
08:51
Non-invasive 3D-Visualization with Sub-micron Resolution Using Synchrotron-X-ray-tomography
Published on: May 27, 2008
[Groenblad-Strandberg syndrome. Study with scanning microscopy provided with an X rays analyzer]
Medicina Cutanea Ibero-Latino-Americana
|January 1, 1977
Summary
Scanning electron microscopy revealed star-shaped calcium crystals in pseudoxanthoma elasticum. The skin condition, associated with angioid striae, showed a dermis rich in potassium and poor in magnesium.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Materials Science
- Medical Imaging
Context:
- Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a rare genetic disorder affecting elastic tissue.
- PXE can lead to angioid striae (Groenblad-Strandberg syndrome), impacting vision.
- Understanding the mineral composition of PXE lesions is crucial for disease insight.
Purpose:
- To investigate the crystalline deposits within a skin biopsy of pseudoxanthoma elasticum using advanced microscopy.
- To identify the elemental composition of these crystalline structures.
- To analyze the mineral content of the dermis in PXE patients.
Summary:
- A skin biopsy from a patient with pseudoxanthoma elasticum and angioid striae was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray microanalysis.
- SEM revealed tabular crystalline deposits with subround faces and rhombohedric tendencies.
- X-ray microanalysis identified star-shaped crystalline deposits as calcium salts, with the PXE dermis showing high potassium and low magnesium content.
Impact:
- This study provides novel insights into the mineral composition of pseudoxanthoma elasticum lesions.
- The identification of calcium crystals may contribute to understanding PXE pathogenesis.
- Findings suggest potential alterations in dermal mineral balance in PXE, warranting further investigation.
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