Chronic submandibular sialadenitis: ultrastructure and phosphatase histochemistry

Area of Science:

• Pathology
• Cell Biology
• Salivary Gland Biology

Background:

• Chronic submandibular sialadenitis is a condition affecting salivary gland function.
• Understanding the cellular and molecular changes in atrophic salivary glands is crucial for treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the histopathological and cellular changes in chronic submandibular sialadenitis.
• To elucidate the mechanisms of parenchymal atrophy and adaptation in affected salivary glands.

Main Methods:

• Histopathological examination of eleven chronic submandibular sialadenitis specimens.
• Enzyme histochemistry to detect thiamine pyrophosphatase, acid phosphatase, and alkaline phosphatase.

Main Results:

• Acinar cells showed reduced secretory material and increasing atrophy, resembling intercalary ducts.
• Striated and excretory ducts exhibited reduced plasma membrane folding and fewer mitochondria.
• Lysosomes and phagosomes were observed, suggesting a role in cellular atrophy and phagocytosis.
• Enzyme activity indicated continued synthetic activity in moderately atrophic parenchyma and potential resorption in excretory ducts.

Conclusions:

• The observed changes represent functional atrophy secondary to reduced salivary flow.
• Salivary gland parenchyma adapts to altered environments, forming the basis for successful conservative therapy.
• Cellular mechanisms like phagocytosis and lysosomal activity play a role in the atrophic process.