Quantitative histopathology of soft tissue calcifications.
Quantitative evaluation of soft tissue calcifications in histological sections, e.g. in connection with nephrocalcinosis, can be based on numerous methods. Staining methods detecting the calcifications do not give a detailed idea about their chemical composition, which can be analysed through electron probe x-ray microanalysis or chemical analysis. When the idea is to compare two groups in terms of calcifications several approaches are possible. Subjective quantitation into several grades will detect larger differences. Morphometrical or stereological methods are to be recommended, however. These methods can be based on volume fraction estimation through point-counting procedures. The point-counting method can be adjusted to detect changes at a predefined accuracy level by varying the number of points used in the estimation. Stereological estimation can best be carried out by defining the volume of the organ studied and the volume occupied by the deposits. The volumes as absolute values or as volume fractions can be used to compare the groups studied. Counting of the deposits can be done from single sections or from consecutive sections. The stereological estimates can be based on the formula of Ebbeson and Tang and on the disector principle derived from it. In comparing different groups, parametric statistical methods can be used when absolute volumes of deposits are considered. Nonparametric methods should be used when volume fractions or subjective grades are compared.
Collan
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Department of Pathology, University of Turku, Finland.
D000818:Animals; D002137:Calculi / Q000737:chemistry / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D009397:Nephrocalcinosis / Q000473:pathology; D011336:Probability