The normal human parathyroid gland. A histochemical and ultrastructural study with particular reference to follicular structures.
Bioptic specimens of 10 normal human parathyroid glands taken during thyroidectomies were studied both by light microscopy, using a histochemical technique, and electron microscopy. All the glands exhibited regions of different sizes in which follicles made up the tissue architecture. The follicles contained a homogeneous colloid-like substance. Our results seem to exclude the amyloid nature of the follicular content suggested by some Authors, though no further clarification as to its real make-up is provided. The cells lining the follicles belong to a type not as yet described in the normal human parathyroid. These cells appear to be large and clear and are also found in the non-follicular parenchyma. On the basis of their morphologic features we have classified the large clear cells as a particular, deviated stage of the actively secreting chief-cell. The origin and significance of the follicles are also discussed.
D000328:Adult; D003593:Cytoplasm / Q000648:ultrastructure; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010280:Parathyroid Glands / Q000166:cytology / Q000648:ultrastructure*