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Scanning electron microscopic and X-ray microdiffractometeric studies on sialolith-crystals in human submandibular
Acta Pathologica Japonica
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Submandibular gland calculi exhibit diverse crystalline structures, with apatite being common. Early formation stages may involve brushite and weddellite, transforming into more stable mineral phases over time.
Area of Science:
- Mineralogy
- Oral Pathology
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Submandibular gland calculi (salivary stones) are common in the oral cavity.
- Understanding their crystalline composition is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
- Previous studies have indicated varied mineral content in salivary calculi.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the detailed crystalline structures of submandibular gland calculi.
- To identify the mineral phases present on the surface and within the calculi.
- To elucidate the formation process and mineral transformation pathways.
Main Methods:
- Radiomicrography
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for surface and internal morphology.
- X-ray microdiffractometry for precise mineral phase identification.
Main Results:
- SEM revealed granular, globular, and pyramidal surface structures, with lamellar patterns and amorphous nuclei internally.
- X-ray microdiffractometry frequently detected apatite both externally and internally.
- Whitlockite was common internally; brushite and weddellite were found externally in one case each.
Conclusions:
- Submandibular calculi display complex crystalline architectures.
- Brushite and weddellite may represent early mineral phases, potentially transforming into more stable apatite.
- These findings contribute to understanding salivary stone pathogenesis.