Calcium Phosphate in Aspergillosis of the Maxillary Sinus

Authors

Hidekuni Tanaka, Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo
Toshiro Sakae, Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo
Hiroyuki Mishima, Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo
Hirotsugu Yamamoto, Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo

Abstract

The unique appearance of apatite in fungus balls of aspergillosis in the maxillary sinus was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray microdiffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Rod-shaped fragments with tubular structures, and globular vesicles covered with conidia were observed in the fungus balls. Massive fragments of a solid substance were demonstrated inside the fungus balls. Calcium and phosphate were detected in necrotic areas of the fungus balls by EDS. X-ray microdiffraction and FT-IR showed the presence of an apatite-like substance, but failed to demonstrate the presence of calcium oxalate crystals usually found in such fungus balls.

Recommended Citation

Tanaka, Hidekuni; Sakae, Toshiro; Mishima, Hiroyuki; and Yamamoto, Hirotsugu (1993) "Calcium Phosphate in Aspergillosis of the Maxillary Sinus," Scanning Microscopy: Vol. 7: No. 4, Article 13.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/microscopy/vol7/iss4/13