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Structure of psammoma bodies of a meningioma in scanning electron microscopy
Abstract:
Psammoma bodies in a human transitional meningioma were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of deparaffinized tissue slices and sections. The bodies, visible as round structures by light microscopy, were confirmed in SEM to have a spherical rather than tubular three-dimensional structure. They were distinctly demarcated from a surrounding cup-like wall of cells. Under high magnification, the undulating surface of the bodies was found to be covered by interwoven fibers. In cross-section the bodies had a lamellar internal structure. The lamellae consisted of a network of concentric strands and fibers with associated bead-like material. The structure of psammoma bodies seen in SEM speaks in favor of their genesis by calcification of concentrically deposited fibrillar extracellular material.
Insights
Scanning electron microscopy revealed psammoma bodies in meningioma have a spherical structure with a lamellar internal composition. These findings suggest psammoma bodies form via calcification of extracellular fibrillar material.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Pathology
- Electron Microscopy
Background:
- Psammoma bodies are calcified structures observed in various tumors, including meningiomas.
- Their precise ultrastructure and formation mechanism remain incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the three-dimensional structure and ultrastructure of psammoma bodies in human transitional meningioma using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- To investigate the potential genesis of psammoma bodies based on their observed ultrastructure.
Main Methods:
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed on deparaffinized tissue slices and sections of human transitional meningioma.
- Detailed ultrastructural analysis of psammoma bodies, including surface morphology and internal lamellar structure, was performed.
Main Results:
- SEM confirmed psammoma bodies possess a spherical, not tubular, three-dimensional structure.
- The bodies exhibit an undulating surface covered by interwoven fibers and a lamellar internal structure composed of concentric strands and bead-like material.
- A distinct cup-like cellular wall demarcated the psammoma bodies.
Conclusions:
- The observed ultrastructure of psammoma bodies supports their formation through the calcification of concentrically deposited extracellular fibrillar material.
- SEM provides valuable insights into the detailed morphology and potential pathogenesis of psammoma bodies in meningiomas.