The role of matrix vesicles in the pathogenesis of tympanosclerosis.
In a histological and electron microscopical study the authors investigated the pathogenesis of tympanosclerosis. Emphasis was placed on the role of extracellular lysosomes (= matrix lysosomes). The function of such matrix lysosomes is connected with the two-stage degradation of the connective tissue. This system gets out of control in tympanosclerosis. Inflammatory and immunological processes are suggested to be superimposed on this lysosomal action.
D000328:Adult; D002114:Calcinosis / Q000209:etiology; D004427:Ear Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D004432:Ear, Middle / Q000473:pathology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D005260:Female; D005347:Fibroblasts / Q000648:ultrastructure; D006801:Humans; D008247:Lysosomes / Q000378:metabolism*; D008297:Male; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D010033:Otitis Media / Q000473:pathology; D012598:Sclerosis