Calcium phosphate in aspergillosis of the maxillary sinus

The unique appearance of apatite in fungus balls of aspergillosis in the maxillary sinus was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray microdiffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Rod-shaped fragments with tubular structures, and globular vesicles covered with conidia were observed in the fungus balls. Massive fragments of a solid substance were demonstrated inside the fungus balls. Calcium and phosphate were detected in necrotic areas of the fungus balls by EDS. X-ray microdiffraction and FT-IR showed the presence of an apatite-like substance, but failed to demonstrate the presence of calcium oxalate crystals usually found in such fungus balls.