Vascular mineralization in the monkey brain

Vet Pathol. 1994 Sep;31(5):546-52. doi: 10.1177/030098589403100506.

Abstract

Mineralization of various degrees was found in the brains of 79 (59%) of 134 cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). There was no age dependency in the incidence or severity, nor were there any abnormalities in growth, weight gain, or neurologic signs, although a slight sex difference was observed. The lesions, which were basophilic and intensely positive for periodic acid-Schiff or von Kossa stain, occurred in the vascular walls of the globus pallidus in two types: globoid bodies with prominent concentric lamellar structures in and around the arteriolar and venular wall (type A) and fine granules in the media of small or medium-sized arteries (type B). Electron microscopic examination revealed dense deposits in the degenerated media of small or medium-sized arteries or the thickened walls of the arterioles. X-ray microanalysis demonstrated the presence of calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, magnesium, and aluminum.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcinosis / pathology
  • Calcinosis / veterinary*
  • Female
  • Globus Pallidus / blood supply*
  • Globus Pallidus / pathology*
  • Macaca fascicularis*
  • Male
  • Microscopy, Electron / veterinary
  • Monkey Diseases / pathology*