Ultrastructural studies in Langerhans cell histiocytosis: a search for evidence of viral etiology.
The ultrastructure of lesional cells in biopsy material from 50 cases of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) was studied for the effects of virus and/or cytokines. Viral "footprints," which actually represent ultrastructural signs of the effects of cytokines on cells, were found in 76% of the cases. These were detected in lesional Langerhans cells, endothelial cells, and lymphocytes and consisted of tubuloreticular structures, cylindrical confronting cisternae, and curvilinear membranous formations. No virus particles or virus-specific cell products were found. These studies suggest that LCH cells are subject to cytokine stimulation but provide no evidence to implicate a virus in the disease process.
Mierau
G W
GW
Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital, Denver, Colorado 80218.
Wills
E J
EJ
Steele
P O
PO
D006646:Histiocytosis, Langerhans-Cell / Q000473:pathology / Q000821:virology*; D006801:Humans; D014780:Viruses / Q000302:isolation & purification*