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Matsuoka T, Oya N, Imai A, Sun W, Kitabayashi Y, Akazawa K, Yamada K, Ikeda K, Matoba S, Narumoto J. Intracranial calcifications associated with factors related and unrelated to atherosclerosis in older people: A community dwelling cohort study. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30011. [PMID: 38707275 PMCID: PMC11066399 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The cause of intracranial calcification is not fully understood. The aim of the current study was to identify factors associated with intracranial calcification and to determine whether these factors differ in calcification of different sites. A total of 404 community-dwelling people aged 65 or older were included in the study. All subjects underwent brain computed tomography (CT), blood tests, and a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Intracranial calcifications were scored using CT. Stepwise regression analysis was performed to examine factors associated with intracranial calcification, with each calcification score used as a dependent variable. Independent variables included age, gender, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), dyslipidemia, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), smoking, serum iron, ferritin, and intact parathyroid hormone (PTH). Stepwise regression analysis detected male gender as a predictor of pineal gland calcification and intact PTH as a predictor of basal ganglia calcification. Age and lifestyle diseases were identified as predictors of calcification of the falx cerebri, internal carotid arteries, and vertebral arteries. These results indicate that the mechanisms of calcifications of the pineal gland and basal ganglia might differ from that of artery calcification, and that causes of intracranial calcification might be classified using factors that are and are not related to atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruyuki Matsuoka
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry, NHO Maizuru Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nozomu Oya
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ayu Imai
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Weiyi Sun
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Kentaro Akazawa
- Department of Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kei Yamada
- Department of Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koji Ikeda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Longevity and Regional Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satoaki Matoba
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Longevity and Regional Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jin Narumoto
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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Yasuda T, Matsuoka T, Takagi T, Oya N, Akazawa K, Inoue R, Mizushima K, Ouchi N, Adachi A, Kamitani T, Itoh Y, Naito Y, Yamada K, Matoba S, Narumoto J. The gut microbiota associated with pineal gland calcification. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24:178-180. [PMID: 37994221 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.14741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Yasuda
- Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Teruyuki Matsuoka
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry, National Hospital Organisation Maizuru Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Takagi
- Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Department for Medical Innovation and Translational Medical Science, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nozomu Oya
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kentaro Akazawa
- Department of Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ryo Inoue
- Department of Applied Biological Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Setsunan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Katsura Mizushima
- Department of Human Immunology and Nutrition Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Norihiro Ouchi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kyotango Municipal Yasaka Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsuo Adachi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kyotango Municipal Yasaka Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tadaaki Kamitani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kyotango Municipal Yasaka Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshito Itoh
- Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuji Naito
- Department of Human Immunology and Nutrition Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kei Yamada
- Department of Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satoaki Matoba
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Longevity and Regional Epidemiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jin Narumoto
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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Belay DG, Worku MG. Prevalence of pineal gland calcification: systematic review and meta-analysis. Syst Rev 2023; 12:32. [PMID: 36879256 PMCID: PMC9987140 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02205-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pineal gland calcification is the formation of corpora arenacea predominantly composed of calcium and phosphorus. It plays an important role in regulating the light/dark circadian changes to synchronize their daily physiological activities like feeding, metabolism, reproduction, and sleep through the secretion of melatonin. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of pineal gland calcification. METHODS A systematic review was done using published research articles from different electronic databases. Cross-sectional studies were included for systematic review and only studies conducted on the human population were included for quantitative analysis. Published articles were selected by assessing the title and abstract for relevance to the review objectives. Finally, the full text was retrieved for further assessment. RESULTS The pooled prevalence of pineal gland calcification was 61.65% [95% CI: 52.81, 70.49], with a heterogeneity of I2 = 97.7%, P ≤ 0.001. According to the qualitative analysis, an increase in age, male sex, and white ethnicity are the major socio-demographic characteristics that increase the prevalence of pineal gland calcification. CONCLUSION The pooled prevalence of pineal gland calcification was higher compared with reports from previous studies. Different studies reported pineal gland calcification was most prevalent in the adult population compared with the pediatric age groups. According to the qualitative analysis, an increase in age, male sex, and white ethnicity are the major socio-demographic characteristics that increase the prevalence of pineal gland calcification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gashaneh Belay
- Department of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Science, School of Medicine, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Misganaw Gebrie Worku
- Department of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Science, School of Medicine, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
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Abstract
The pineal gland is a interface between light-dark cycle and shows neuro-endocrine functions. Melatonin is the primary hormone of pineal gland, secreted at night. The night-time melatonin peak regulates the physiological functions at dark. Melatonin has several unique features as it synchronises internal rhythm with daily and seasonal variations, regulates circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycle. Physiologically melatonin involves in detoxification of free radicals, immune functions, neuro-protection, oncostatic effects, cardiovascular functions, reproduction, and foetal development. The precise functions of melatonin are exhibited by specific receptors. In relation to pathophysiology, impaired melatonin secretion promotes sleep disorder, cancer progression, type-2 diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases. Several reports have highlighted the therapeutic benefits of melatonin specially related to cancer protection, sleep disorder, psychiatric disorders, and jet lag problems. This review will touch the most of the area of melatonin-oriented health impacts and its therapeutic aspects.
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SUZEN M, DİLAVER E, UÇKAN S. Evaluation of prevalence and dimension of Pineal Gland Calcification by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). CUMHURIYET DENTAL JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.7126/cumudj.1111722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and dimensions of pineal gland calcification using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in patients undergoing dental treatment.
Materials and Methods: CBCTs that localized pineal gland in the fov range was selected in this retrospective study. The presence of pineal gland calcification (PGC) was noted. Vertical, horizontal and areal measurements were made by a single observer (M.S). Variables such as age, gender for each patient were recorded using previous clinical examination data.
Results: The prevalence of pineal gland calcification was 33.64% (female to male ratio 3:2). The difference between males and females was not significant (p>0.05). PGC was highly seen in older patients when compared with younger patients (p:000). The average vertical and horizontal dimension of PGC was 2,56±0,98mm and 3,39±1,29 mm respectively. The average total calcified area was 5,45±3,75 mm2.
Conclusion: This study did not find any correlation between age, gender, and linear measurements. However, the average calcified are in men was found to be significantly higher than in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muazzez SUZEN
- Istanbul Medipol University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Oral And Maxillofacial surgery
| | - Emrah DİLAVER
- İstanbul Medipol University,School of dentistry,Deparment of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
| | - Sina UÇKAN
- Istanbul Medipol University,School of dentistry,Deparment of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
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Takahashi T, Wood SJ, Yung AR, Nelson B, Lin A, Yuen HP, Phillips LJ, Suzuki M, McGorry PD, Velakoulis D, Pantelis C. Pineal morphology of the clinical high-risk state for psychosis and different psychotic disorders. Schizophr Res 2022; 244:1-7. [PMID: 35487129 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2022.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pineal volume reductions have been reported in schizophrenia and clinical high-risk states for the development of psychosis, supporting the role of melatonin dysregulation in the pathophysiology of psychosis. However, it remains unclear whether pineal volume is associated with the later onset of psychosis in individuals at clinical high-risk (CHR) of psychosis or if pineal atrophy is specific to schizophrenia among different psychotic disorders. METHODS This magnetic resonance imaging study examined the volume of and cyst prevalence in the pineal gland in 135 individuals at CHR of psychosis [52 (38.5%) subsequently developed psychosis], 162 with first-episode psychosis (FEP), 89 with chronic schizophrenia, and 87 healthy controls. The potential contribution of the pineal morphology to clinical characteristics was also examined in the CHR and FEP groups. RESULTS Pineal volumes did not differ significantly between the CHR, FEP, and chronic schizophrenia groups, but were significantly smaller than that in healthy controls. However, pineal volumes were not associated with the later onset of psychosis in the CHR group or FEP sub-diagnosis (i.e., schizophrenia, schizophreniform disorder, affective psychosis, and other psychoses). No significant differences were observed in the prevalence of pineal cysts between the groups, and it also did not correlate with clinical characteristics in the CHR and FEP groups. CONCLUSION These results suggest that pineal atrophy is a general vulnerability marker of psychosis, while pineal cysts do not appear to contribute to the pathophysiology of psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsutomu Takahashi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, University of Toyama Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toyama, Japan; Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan.
| | - Stephen J Wood
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alison R Yung
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia; School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Barnaby Nelson
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ashleigh Lin
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Lisa J Phillips
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michio Suzuki
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, University of Toyama Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toyama, Japan; Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Patrick D McGorry
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Dennis Velakoulis
- Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Carlton South, Victoria, Australia; Neuropsychiatry, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christos Pantelis
- Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Carlton South, Victoria, Australia; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; North Western Mental Health, Western Hospital Sunshine, St. Albans, Victoria, Australia
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Tsai YL, Yen CT, Wang YF. Astrocyte Dysregulation and Calcium Ion Imbalance May Link the Development of Osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 88:439-445. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-220218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The typical symptoms of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques and tau hyperphosphorylation. However, recent studies show that these symptoms are not the cause of the disease but are generated after the pathogenesis. Compared with other types of dementia, AD has the obvious features of pineal gland calcification and decreased melatonin production. The pineal gland is mainly composed of pinealocytes that release melatonin and astrocytes. Astrocytes function to maintain a balanced concentration of calcium ions, provide nerve cell nutrients, and migrate nutrients in vivo. Calcium ions are among the most important neurotransmitters. Once triggered, a calcium wave can be formed between astrocytes to activate other astrocytes to transmit information. Most calcium is stored in the skeleton. Bone tissue is composed mainly of osteocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts. Of these, osteocyte is a kind of astrocyte which regulates the activity of osteoclasts and osteoblasts. The pineal gland is composed mainly of astrocytes; osteocytes are also a kind of astrocyte. Therefore, we conclude that when astrocytes are gradually disabled, calcium may be lost from the bones, prompting osteoporosis. The calcium ions then released into the blood may accumulate and cause ectopic calcification in the pineal gland, which promotes the occurrence of AD. Finally, this study used aspects of drugs and hormones (bone and calcium metabolism hormones and melatonin) to infer the hypothesis, which proposes that astrocyte dysregulation promotes the long-term imbalance of calcium ions in vivo and leads to osteoporosis and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Liang Tsai
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chiayi, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Tsung Yen
- Department of Neurology, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Yuh-Feng Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chiayi, Taiwan
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Center of Preventive Medicine, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chiayi, Taiwan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Physiologic intracranial calcifications incidentally detected on cone beam computed tomography. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 2022; 134:e281-e286. [PMID: 35701294 DOI: 10.1016/j.oooo.2022.04.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to determine the incidence of physiologic intracranial calcifications on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to contribute to the differentiation between physiologic and pathologic intracranial calcifications by sharing their characteristic appearances, with the largest number of patients in the literature and many different types of physiologic calcifications. STUDY DESIGN CBCT images of 996 patients admitted to the clinic between 2018 and 2019 were scanned retrospectively. Petroclinoid (PCL) and interclinoid ligaments (ICL), pineal gland, coronoid plexus, falx cerebri, tentorium cerebelli, and other dural calcifications were evaluated in each radiograph. RESULTS Physiologic calcification was present in 49.4% of the cases, and pineal gland calcification was the most common (47.6%) type. PCL calcification was detected in 22.1%, and it was mostly bilateral partial. There were complete ICL in 1.2%, coronoid plexus in 11.3%, falx cerebri in 6.3%, tentorium cerebelli in 1.1%, and other dural calcifications in 3.6%. Only PCL calcifications differed between sexes and were more common in males. PCL, pineal gland, and coronoid plexus calcifications were most detected in the third decade of the cases. CONCLUSIONS Intracranial calcifications are detected incidentally in CBCT examinations. Some calcifications may indicate pathologic conditions, and patients may need to be referred for further evaluation.
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Sisakhti M, Shafaghi L, Batouli SAH. The Volumetric Changes of the Pineal Gland with Age: An Atlas-based Structural Analysis. Exp Aging Res 2022; 48:474-504. [DOI: 10.1080/0361073x.2022.2033593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Minoo Sisakhti
- Department of Cognitive Psychology, Institute for Cognitive Sciences Studies, Tehran, Iran
| | - Lida Shafaghi
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Computational Cognition, Humanlab Technologies, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Seyed Amir Hossein Batouli
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Ghorbanlou M, Moradi F, Mehdizadeh M. Frequency, shape, and estimated volume of intracranial physiologic calcification in different age groups investigated by brain computed tomography scan: a retrospective study. Anat Cell Biol 2021; 55:63-71. [PMID: 34866062 PMCID: PMC8968236 DOI: 10.5115/acb.21.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracranial calcification is referred to calcification of parenchyma and vascular structures in brain which can be physiologic or pathologic. This study was conducted with the purpose of investigating the frequency, location, pattern, dimensions and estimated volume of intracranial physiologic calcification (IPC) by computer tomography in different age groups. In this cross-sectional retrospective study, brain computed tomography scans of 216 patients were analyzed in 9 age groups each containing 24 patients from 2 to 89 years old. Data were analyzed by SPSS software using one way analysis of variance (ANOVA, post hoc Tukey), chi square, and linear regression tests (P≤0.05 was considered significant). Rate of calcification in different areas were as follows: pineal gland (75.0%), habenula (36.4%), pineohabenula (15.0%), right lateral ventricle choroid plexus (RCP) (67.7%), left lateral ventricle choroid plexus (LCP) (62.7%), falx cerebri (26.8%), petroclinoid ligament (13.2%), tentorium cerebelli (6.8%), third ventricle choroid plexus (0.9%), fourth ventricle choroid plexus (2.7%), basal ganglia (0.9%). A significant correlation exists between the presence of calcification in pineal, habenula, RCP, and LCP (P≤0.001). Nodular shape of calcification was dominant (47.9%). Estimated volume of pineal calcification showed increased levels in group 8 (70–79 years old) compared to group 2 (10–19 years old) (P≤0.05). Since the accurate description of radiologic appearance of IPCs (location, shape, and size) accompanied with age and clinical manifestation is of great importance in diagnosis and distinguishing from pathologic calcification—for example in patients with melatonin dysregulation or schizophrenic patients—this study was required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Ghorbanlou
- Student Research Committee, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Moradi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Evaluation of Physiological Intracranial Calcifications in Children Using Computed Tomography. SERBIAN JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL AND CLINICAL RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.2478/sjecr-2020-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction. Physiological intracranial calcifications have an increasing prevalence with the age and can be found in both children and in adults. These calcifications are basically asymptomatic and their presence can only be noticed through neuro-imaging.
The aim of the paper was to evaluate physiological intracranial calcifications in children using computed tomography, in our conditions.
Materials and methods. The study was designed as a retrospective, observational, non-randomized clinical study. It was conducted at the Department of Radiology, Clinical Center Kragujevac, Serbia. The study included all the patients scanned by CT from 1st October, 2008. to 30th September, 2018.. The criteria for the inclusion were: the patients aged up to 18 years who underwent a non-contrast computed tomography in the observed period, with diagnosed intracranial calcifications that do not have pathological etiology.
Results. Our study included 420 patients. Out of them, 213 (50.7%) were boys and 207 (49.3%) were girls. The mean age was 12.47. We divided the patients into two age categories: the first one included the patients aged 1 to 10 years and the other one included the patients aged 11 to 18 years. Our study has demonstrated that physiological intracranial calcifications are the most frequent in habenula (28.1%), followed by the pineal gland (22.6%) and choroid plexus (18.8%).
Conclusion. There is a small number of studies with the subject of physiological intracranial calcification distribution, especially in children. It is important to know in which locations we can expect physiological intracranial calcifications, as well as the age in which they become detectable by imaging, in order not to mix them with hemorrhages, pathological tumor or metabolic mineralization.
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Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Evaluation of Intracranial Physiologic Calcifications. J Craniofac Surg 2019; 30:510-513. [PMID: 30507878 DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000004918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to evaluate the incidence of physiologic intracranial calcifications detected in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of a Turkish subpopulation. METHODS The CBCT image of the full head of 573 patients taken between 2015 and 2018 was evaluated retrospectively. The prevalence of habenular calcification, petroclinoid ligament, coroid plexus, interclinoid ligament (ICL), and carotico-clinoid ligament (CCL) calcifications was investigated. The age and gender of the patients were recorded. RESULTS Intracranial calcification was found in 190 (33.1%) of 573 cases. The frequency of physiological calcifications is respectively; 19.2% were found as habenular, 4.88% as ICL, 3.83% as CCL, 2.7% as petroclinoid ligament, and 2.4% as choroid plexus. 38.2% of the women and 29.3% of the men had intracranial calcification. In 4 patients, both ICL and CCL ossification were detected. No statistically significant relationship was found between age, gender, and calcifications. CONCLUSION Cone beam computed tomography is a widely used imaging technique for dental diagnosis and treatment. Intracranial physiological calcifications may be a common incidental finding of CBCT scans.
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Sergina SN, Ilyukha VA, Morozov AV, Antonova EP, Bruler ES, Volodina AD. Taxonomic and Ethnical Dispersion of the Phenomenon of Pineal Concretions in the Gerontological Context. ADVANCES IN GERONTOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1134/s2079057019020206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Monsarrat P, Galibourg A, Nasr K, Telmon N, Maret D. Incidental Findings in Dental Radiology are Concerning for Family Doctors. Open Med (Wars) 2019; 14:467-478. [PMID: 31410365 PMCID: PMC6689204 DOI: 10.1515/med-2019-0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT) is an imaging technology increasingly used in dentistry. Depending on the size of the examination area, visualization of anatomical structures outside the indication area may reveal incidental findings (IF). The aims of this systematic review and meta-analysis were to 1) evaluate the frequency, location and different types of incidental findings (IF) revealed during CBCT examinations; 2) identify potential influencing factors such as gender or age; 3) highlight what the family doctor should know about CBCT and the benefits for medical care. 70 retrospective studies were included. 60% of IF are in the naso-oropharyngeal airway and paranasal sinuses. Carotid calcifications were observed with a mean prevalence of 9% CI95% [2-21]). Meta-regression showed a significant association of this prevalence with age, irrespective of gender. Given the high frequency of IF, with varying severity, the whole medical community is fully involved, and its opinion should be sought to ensure the best possible management for the patients. Physicians may also require CBCT examinations that would have been previously prescribed by a dentist, that may serve to better orientate investigations toward another imaging technique. The family doctor is therefore the dentist’s main interlocutor and the main coordinator of the follow-up of IF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Monsarrat
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Radiology, Dental Faculty, Paul Sabatier University, Toulouse University Hospital, UFR Odontologie de Toulouse 3, Chemin des Maraîchers 31062 Toulouse Cedex 9 Toulouse, France.,STROMALab, Université de Toulouse, CNRS ERL 5311, EFS, ENVT, Inserm, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Antoine Galibourg
- Department of Prostheses, Dental Faculty, Paul Sabatier University, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France.,AMIS Laboratory - Laboratoire Anthropologie Moléculaire et Imagerie de Synthèse, Université de Toulouse, UMR 5288 CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Karim Nasr
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Radiology, Dental Faculty, Paul Sabatier University, Toulouse University Hospital, UFR Odontologie de Toulouse 3, Chemin des Maraîchers 31062 Toulouse Cedex 9 Toulouse, France
| | - Norbert Telmon
- AMIS Laboratory - Laboratoire Anthropologie Moléculaire et Imagerie de Synthèse, Université de Toulouse, UMR 5288 CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France.,Service de Médecine Légale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Rangueil, avenue du Professeur Jean Poulhès, 31059, Toulouse Cedex 9, Toulouse, France
| | - Delphine Maret
- AMIS Laboratory - Laboratoire Anthropologie Moléculaire et Imagerie de Synthèse, Université de Toulouse, UMR 5288 CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France.,Department of Restorative Dentistry, Endodontics, Paul Sabatier University, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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15
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Song J. Pineal gland dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease: relationship with the immune-pineal axis, sleep disturbance, and neurogenesis. Mol Neurodegener 2019; 14:28. [PMID: 31296240 PMCID: PMC6624939 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-019-0330-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a globally common neurodegenerative disease, which is accompanied by alterations to various lifestyle patterns, such as sleep disturbance. The pineal gland is the primary endocrine organ that secretes hormones, such as melatonin, and controls the circadian rhythms. The decrease in pineal gland volume and pineal calcification leads to the reduction of melatonin production. Melatonin has been reported to have multiple roles in the central nervous system (CNS), including improving neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity, suppressing neuroinflammation, enhancing memory function, and protecting against oxidative stress. Recently, reduced pineal gland volume and pineal calcification, accompanied by cognitive decline and sleep disturbances have been observed in AD patients. Here, I review current significant evidence of the contribution of pineal dysfunction in AD to the progress of AD neuropathology. I suggest new insights to understanding the relationship between AD pathogenesis and pineal gland function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhyun Song
- Department of Anatomy, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, 58128, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Shi Y, Fang YY, Wei YP, Jiang Q, Zeng P, Tang N, Lu Y, Tian Q. Melatonin in Synaptic Impairments of Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 63:911-926. [PMID: 29710712 DOI: 10.3233/jad-171178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) underlies dementia for millions of people worldwide with no effective treatment. The dementia of AD is thought stem from the impairments of the synapses because of their critical roles in cognition. Melatonin is a neurohormone mainly released by the pineal gland in a circadian manner and it regulates brain functions in various manners. It is reported that both the melatonin deficit and synaptic impairments are present in the very early stage of AD and strongly contribute to the progress of AD. In the mammalian brains, the effects of melatonin are mainly relayed by two of its receptors, melatonin receptor type 1a (MT1) and 1b (MT2). To have a clear idea on the roles of melatonin in synaptic impairments of AD, this review discussed the actions of melatonin and its receptors in the stabilization of synapses, modulation of long-term potentiation, as well as their contributions in the transmissions of glutamatergic, GABAergic and dopaminergic synapses, which are the three main types of synapses relevant to the synaptic strength. The synaptic protective roles of melatonin in AD treatment were also summarized. Regarding its protective roles against amyloid-β neurotoxicity, tau hyperphosphorylation, oxygenation, inflammation as well as synaptic dysfunctions, melatonin may be an ideal therapeutic agent against AD at early stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Shi
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying-Yan Fang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu-Ping Wei
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qian Jiang
- Integrated TCM and Western Medicine Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng Zeng
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Na Tang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Youming Lu
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qing Tian
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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17
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Bastos MAV, Oliveira Bastos PRHD, Portella RB, Soares LFG, Conde RB, Rodrigues PMF, Lucchetti G. Pineal gland and schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 104:100-114. [PMID: 30831343 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin (MLT), the main hormone of the pineal gland (PG), is assumed to support initiation and maintenance of sleep, and a stable sleep-wake cycle, exerting antioxidative and neuroprotective actions. Evidence demonstrates that sleep and circadian rhythm abnormalities are very common in schizophrenia patients. Some imaging studies suggest structural abnormalities of the PG in these patients as well. We aimed to critically appraise the literature on PG imaging and melatonin secretion in schizophrenia patients, in comparison to matched healthy controls, and to review placebo-controlled trials of add-on exogenous MLT treatment in schizophrenia patients. In this systematic review, twenty-nine studies were included. Meta-analytical evaluation of data was possible only for MLT secretion finding that midnight plasma levels were significantly reduced in individuals with schizophrenia as compared to healthy controls (Hedge`s g = 1.32, p < 0.01). Imaging studies demonstrated greater prevalence of enlarged calcifications (>1 cm) of the PG (2 out of 2 computed tomography studies) and smaller PG volume (2 out of 3 magnetic resonance studies) compared with healthy controls. Anatomic and functional abnormalities of the PG were not associated with duration of illness or with treatment factors, maybe suggesting them to be primary characteristics of the disease and genetically based. Add-on MLT treatment leads to a modest improvement of objective and subjective sleep quality, of metabolic adverse effects of antipsychotics, and of tardive dyskinesia symptoms in schizophrenia patients. It remains to be established whether MLT treatment in prodromal phases of the disease could prevent neurostructural abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Aurélio Vinhosa Bastos
- Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Postgraduate Program in Health and Development, Av. Senador Filinto Muller, s/n - Cidade Universitária, Campo Grande, MS, 79070-900, Brazil.
| | - Paulo Roberto Haidamus de Oliveira Bastos
- Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Postgraduate Program in Health and Development, Av. Senador Filinto Muller, s/n - Cidade Universitária, Campo Grande, MS, 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Renata Boschi Portella
- Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Faculty of Medicine, Av. Senador Filinto Muller, s/n - Cidade Universitária, Campo Grande, MS, 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Fabrício Gomes Soares
- Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Postgraduate Program in Health and Development, Av. Senador Filinto Muller, s/n - Cidade Universitária, Campo Grande, MS, 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Brilhante Conde
- Proexames Imaging Clinic, Av. Mato Grosso, 1772 - Centro, Campo Grande, MS, 79020-201, Brazil
| | | | - Giancarlo Lucchetti
- Federal University of Juiz de Fora, School of Medicine, Av. Eugênio do Nascimento, s/n - Dom Bosco, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-330, Brazil
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18
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Kopáni M, Vraníková B, Kosnáč D, Zeman M, Šišovský V, Polakovičová S, Biró C. Pineal gland calcification under hypoxic conditions. Physiol Res 2019; 68:S405-S413. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The pineal gland (glandula pinealis) is neuroendocrine gland located at the epithalamus of the brain secreting melatonin. The aim of this study was to explore effects of prenatal hypoxia in rats at the age of 33 weeks on the occurrence of pineal gland calcification. Distribution and chemical composition of calcerous material by light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy was investigated. Melatonin concentrations in blood plasma by direct radioimmunoassay were measured. Rats were exposed to prenatal hypoxia for 12 h at day 20 of development and second group to prenatal hypoxia for 2x8 h at days 19 and 20 of development. Vacuoles of intracellular edema in the pineal samples after 12 h hypoxia were found. Their size ranges up to 30 µm. Some of them were filled with the flocculent and fibrous material. Samples of pineal glands after 2 x 8 h hypoxia revealed the pericellular edema of pinealocytes. The amount of calcium rich particles in 2 x 8 h hypoxia group was lower than in 12 h hypoxia group. Plasma melatonin levels did not differ between control and both hypoxia groups. We concluded that calcification is a process induced by osteoblasts and osteocytes with melatonin as a promotor and it is favored under hypoxic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Kopáni
- , Institute of Medical Physics, Biophysics, Informatics and Telemedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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19
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Tan DX, Xu B, Zhou X, Reiter RJ. Pineal Calcification, Melatonin Production, Aging, Associated Health Consequences and Rejuvenation of the Pineal Gland. Molecules 2018; 23:E301. [PMID: 29385085 PMCID: PMC6017004 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23020301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The pineal gland is a unique organ that synthesizes melatonin as the signaling molecule of natural photoperiodic environment and as a potent neuronal protective antioxidant. An intact and functional pineal gland is necessary for preserving optimal human health. Unfortunately, this gland has the highest calcification rate among all organs and tissues of the human body. Pineal calcification jeopardizes melatonin's synthetic capacity and is associated with a variety of neuronal diseases. In the current review, we summarized the potential mechanisms of how this process may occur under pathological conditions or during aging. We hypothesized that pineal calcification is an active process and resembles in some respects of bone formation. The mesenchymal stem cells and melatonin participate in this process. Finally, we suggest that preservation of pineal health can be achieved by retarding its premature calcification or even rejuvenating the calcified gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dun Xian Tan
- Department of Cell Systems & Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Bing Xu
- Department of Cell Systems & Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Xinjia Zhou
- Department of Cell Systems & Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems & Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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20
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Mutalik S, Tadinada A. Prevalence of pineal gland calcification as an incidental finding in patients referred for implant dental therapy. Imaging Sci Dent 2017; 47:175-180. [PMID: 28989900 PMCID: PMC5620462 DOI: 10.5624/isd.2017.47.3.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Pineal gland calcification has been proposed to play a role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease. This study evaluated the prevalence and extent of pineal gland calcification in cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of patients referred for dental implant therapy who could possibly be a vulnerable group for this condition. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective evaluation of 500 CBCT scans was conducted. Scans that showed the area where the pineal gland was located were included. The scans were initially screened by a single observer to record the prevalence and extent of calcification. Six weeks following the completion of the study, another investigator randomly reviewed and selected 50 scans to investigate inter-observer variation, which was evaluated using reliability analysis statistics. The prevalence and measurements of the calcifications were reported using descriptive statistics. The chi-square test was used to compare the prevalence between males and females. RESULTS The prevalence of pineal gland calcification was 58.8%. There was no statistically significant correlation between age and the extent of the calcification. The prevalence of calcification was 58.6% in females and 59.0% in males. The average anteroposterior measurement was 3.73±1.63 mm, while the average mediolateral measurement was 3.47±1.31 mm. The average total calcified area was 9.79±7.59 mm2. CONCLUSION The prevalence of pineal gland calcification was high in patients undergoing implant therapy. While not all pineal gland calcifications lead to neurodegenerative disorders, they should be strongly considered in the presence of any symptoms as a reason to initiate further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Mutalik
- Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Aditya Tadinada
- Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
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21
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22
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Adams LC, Böker SM, Bender YY, Diederichs G, Fallenberg EM, Wagner M, Hamm B, Makowski MR. Diagnostic accuracy of susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging for the evaluation of pineal gland calcification. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172764. [PMID: 28278291 PMCID: PMC5344338 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To determine the diagnostic performance of susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (SWMR) for the detection of pineal gland calcifications (PGC) compared to conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences, using computed tomography (CT) as a reference standard. Methods 384 patients who received a 1.5 Tesla MRI scan including SWMR sequences and a CT scan of the brain between January 2014 and October 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. 346 patients were included in the analysis, of which 214 showed PGC on CT scans. To assess correlation between imaging modalities, the maximum calcification diameter was used. Sensitivity and specificity and intra- and interobserver reliability were calculated for SWMR and conventional MRI sequences. Results SWMR reached a sensitivity of 95% (95% CI: 91%-97%) and a specificity of 96% (95% CI: 91%-99%) for the detection of PGC, whereas conventional MRI achieved a sensitivity of 43% (95% CI: 36%-50%) and a specificity of 96% (95% CI: 91%-99%). Detection rates for calcifications in SWMR and conventional MRI differed significantly (95% versus 43%, p<0.001). Diameter measurements between SWMR and CT showed a close correlation (R2 = 0.85, p<0.001) with a slight but not significant overestimation of size (SWMR: 6.5 mm ± 2.5; CT: 5.9 mm ± 2.4, p = 0.02). Interobserver-agreement for diameter measurements was excellent on SWMR (ICC = 0.984, p < 0.0001). Conclusions Combining SWMR magnitude and phase information enables the accurate detection of PGC and offers a better diagnostic performance than conventional MRI with CT as a reference standard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa C. Adams
- Department of Radiology, Charité, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Bernd Hamm
- Department of Radiology, Charité, Berlin, Germany
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23
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Tuntapakul S, Kitkhuandee A, Kanpittaya J, Johns J, Johns NP. Pineal calcification is associated with pediatric primary brain tumor. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2016; 12:e405-e410. [PMID: 27461152 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.12519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM Melatonin has been associated with various tumors, including brain tumor, and shown to inhibit growth of neuroblastoma cells and gliomas in animal models. Likewise, patients with glioblastoma receiving melatonin reported better survival than controls. Pineal calcification may lead to a decreased production of melatonin by calcified glands. This study assessed association between pineal calcification and primary brain tumor in pediatric/adolescent patients. METHODS Medical chart review was conducted in 181 patients <15 years old who had undergone brain computed tomography (CT) during 2008-2012. Pineal calcification was identified using brain CT scan by an experienced neurosurgeon. Primary brain tumor was confirmed by CT scan and histology, and association with pineal calcification was estimated using multiple logistic regression, adjusted for age and gender. RESULTS Primary brain tumor was detected in 51 patients (mean age 9.0, standard deviation 4.0 years), with medulloblastoma being the most common (11 patients). Pineal calcification was detected in 12 patients (23.5%) with primary brain tumor, while only 11 patients (8.5%) without tumor had pineal calcification. Adjusted for patients' ages and genders, pineal calcification was associated with an increase in primary brain tumor of 2.82-fold (odds ratio 2.82; 95% confidence interval 1.12-7.08, P = 0.027). CONCLUSION Pineal calcification appears to be associated with primary brain tumor. Further studies to explore this link are discussed and warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supinya Tuntapakul
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Melatonin Research Group, Muang, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Amnat Kitkhuandee
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Muang, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Jaturat Kanpittaya
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Muang, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Jeffrey Johns
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Melatonin Research Group, Muang, Khon Kaen, Thailand
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Yalcin A, Ceylan M, Bayraktutan OF, Sonkaya AR, Yuce I. Age and gender related prevalence of intracranial calcifications in CT imaging; data from 12,000 healthy subjects. J Chem Neuroanat 2016; 78:20-24. [PMID: 27475519 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2016.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Revised: 07/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Location and extent of intracranial calcifications have been detected accurately with the use of CT technology and since, many clinical or pathological entities have been linked to these calcifications. Our purpose is to provide data regarding the prevalence of calcifications in various locations in brain. MATERIAL AND METHODS We retrospectively examined 11,941 subjects who underwent non-contrast enhanced brain CT examination. We determined the prevalence of choroid plexus, pineal gland, habenula, dura mater, basal ganglia and vascular calcifications. RESULTS Of 11,941 subjects, 70.2% had choroid plexus calcifications. Calcifications were most frequently seen in pineal gland and 71.6% of the study population had pineal calcifications. Habeluna and dural calcifications were present in 19.2% and 12.5% of the population respectively. Basal ganglia calcifications and vascular calcifications only constituted 1.3% and 3.5% of the study population respectively. Male dominance was present in all calcification types except basal ganglia calcifications. CONCLUSIONS Showing associations and dissociations from the literature, our study provides a baseline data regarding the prevalence of various types of intracranial calcifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Yalcin
- Section of Radiology, Regional Education and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Mustafa Ceylan
- Section of Neurology, Regional Education and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Turkey
| | | | - Ali Rıza Sonkaya
- Section of Neurology, Mareşal Çakmak Military Hospital, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Ihsan Yuce
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
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25
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Mohammed KA, Adjei Boakye E, Ismail HA, Geneus CJ, Tobo BB, Buchanan PM, Zelicoff AP. Pineal Gland Calcification in Kurdistan: A Cross-Sectional Study of 480 Roentgenograms. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0159239. [PMID: 27415622 PMCID: PMC4945046 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0159239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The goal of this study was to compare the incidence of Pineal Gland Calcification (PGC) by age group and gender among the populations living in the Kurdistan Region-Iraq. Methods This prospective study examined skull X-rays of 480 patients between the ages of 3 and 89 years who sought care at a large teaching public hospital in Duhok, Iraq from June 2014 to November 2014. Descriptive statistics and a binary logistic regression were used for analysis. Results The overall incidence rate of PGC among the study population was 26.9% with the 51–60 age group and males having the highest incidence. PGC incidence increased after the first decade and remained steady until the age of 60. Thereafter the incidence began to decrease. Logistic regression analysis revealed that both age and gender significantly affected the risk of PGC. After adjusting for age, males were 1.94 (95% CI, 1.26–2.99) times more likely to have PGC compared to females. In addition, a one year increase in age increases the odds of developing PGC by 1.02 (95% CI, 1.01–1.03) units after controlling for the effects of gender. Conclusion Our analysis demonstrated a close relationship between PGC and age and gender, supporting a link between the development of PGC and these factors. This study provides a basis for future researchers to further investigate the nature and mechanisms underlying pineal gland calcification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kahee A. Mohammed
- Department of Epidemiology, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of Duhok, Duhok, Kurdistan–Iraq
| | - Eric Adjei Boakye
- Center for Outcomes Research (SLUCOR), Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Honer A. Ismail
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of Duhok, Duhok, Kurdistan–Iraq
| | - Christian J. Geneus
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Betelihem B. Tobo
- Department of Epidemiology, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Paula M. Buchanan
- Center for Outcomes Research (SLUCOR), Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Alan P. Zelicoff
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
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Incidental Findings on Cone Beam Computed Tomography Studies outside of the Maxillofacial Skeleton. Int J Dent 2016; 2016:9196503. [PMID: 27462350 PMCID: PMC4947649 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9196503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2016] [Revised: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective. To define the presence and prevalence of incidental findings in and around the base of skull from large field-of-view CBCT of the maxillofacial region and to determine their clinical importance. Methods. Four hundred consecutive large fields of view CBCT scans viewed from January 1, 2007, to January 1, 2014, were retrospectively evaluated for incidental findings of the cervical vertebrae and surrounding structures. Findings were categorized into cervical vertebrae, intracranial, soft tissue, airway, carotid artery, lymph node, and skull base findings. Results. A total of 653 incidental findings were identified in 309 of the 400 CBCT scans. The most prevalent incidental findings were soft tissue calcifications (29.71%), followed by intracranial calcifications (27.11%), cervical vertebrae (20.06%), airway (11.49%), external carotid artery calcification (10.41%), lymph node calcification (0.77%), subcutaneous tissue calcification and calcified tendonitis of the longus colli muscle (0.3%), and skull base finding (0.15%). A significant portion of the incidental findings (31.24%) required referral, 17.76% required monitoring, and 51% did not require either. Conclusion. A comprehensive review of the CBCT images beyond the region of interest, especially incidental findings in the base of skull, cervical vertebrae, pharyngeal airway, and soft tissue, is necessary to avoid overlooking clinically significant lesions.
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27
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Assessment of Pineal Gland Volume and Calcification in Healthy Subjects: Is it Related to Aging? J Belg Soc Radiol 2016; 100:13. [PMID: 30038974 PMCID: PMC5854269 DOI: 10.5334/jbr-btr.892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The human pineal gland is a small neuroendocrine organ which produces melatonin. The main goal of this study was to provide a reference range for pineal volume in all age groups and to determine calcified and noncalcified tissue and their proportions, which may be a reflection of melatonin production in all age groups, by using very thin computerized tomography (CT) slices. Materials and methods: A total of 167 outpatients had undergone cranial CT. Each of the subject’s total pineal volume (TPV), calcified pineal volume (CPV) and noncalcified pineal volume (NPV) according to age groups were calculated in cubic millimeters. Also, proportion of calcification (POC) was noted. Results: The median values were 88.5 mm3 (12.3 mm3–411mm3) for TPV, 74.3 mm3 (12.3 mm3–298 mm3) for NPV, and 3.9 mm3 (0 mm3–141 mm3) for CPV. POC showed a gradual increase from 0–49 years. In the ≥70 group, when compared with the 60–69 age group, CPV and POC values were significantly lower (P: 0.036, P: 0.034, respectively). Conclusion: This study brings a radiological point of view to the distribution of pineal calcification according to age that has a link with melatonin secretion.
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28
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Kitkhuandee A, Sawanyawisuth K, Johns J, Kanpittaya J, Tuntapakul S, Johns NP. Pineal calcification is a novel risk factor for symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2014; 121:51-4. [PMID: 24793475 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2014.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Revised: 01/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pineal calcification is associated with symptomatic cerebral infarction in humans. However, there are limited data on the association of pineal calcification and intracerebral hemorrhage. We evaluated this association of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage and pineal calcification by computed tomography of the brain. METHODS We reviewed all computed tomographic (CT) scans of the brains of patients over 15 years of age during the year 2011 at a university teaching hospital. Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage was identified by having clinical syndrome of stroke and acute intracerebral hemorrhage from brain CT scans. Pineal calcification was also evidenced by brain CT scans. Other stroke risk factors were recorded. The association of various risk factors including pineal calcification and intracerebral hemorrhage was calculated using logistic regression analysis. RESULTS There were 2140 CT scans of the brains during the study period. Of those, 1071 scans (50.05%) met the study criteria. Intracerebral hemorrhage and pineal calcification were found in 77 (7.2%) and 689 (64.3%) patients, respectively. Pineal calcification was a significant risk factor for intracerebral hemorrhage with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.36 (95% confidence interval of 1.22-4.54). Other significant factors were age>50 years, hypertension, and diabetes. CONCLUSION Pineal calcification is associated with symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amnat Kitkhuandee
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kean University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Kittisak Sawanyawisuth
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kean University, Khon Kaen, Thailand; The Research and Training Center for Enhancing Quality of Life of Working-Age People, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.
| | - Jeffrey Johns
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Melatonin Research Group, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Jaturat Kanpittaya
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kean University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Supinya Tuntapakul
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Melatonin Research Group, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
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Pineal Calcification Is Associated with Symptomatic Cerebral Infarction. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2014; 23:249-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2013.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 12/20/2012] [Accepted: 01/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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de Oliveira MF, Silva EBE, de Oliveira JRM. Prevalence of brain calcifications in a Brazilian cohort: A retrospective study in radiology services. Dement Neuropsychol 2013; 7:210-215. [PMID: 29213842 PMCID: PMC5619520 DOI: 10.1590/s1980-57642013dn70200012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2012] [Accepted: 04/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain calcifications may be present in a wide range of neuropsychiatric, infectious traumatic, neoplastic and endocrine conditions, associated with motor and cognitive symptoms. They are often considered "physiologic" or pathologic. OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of brain calcifications in a Brazilian cohort. METHODS 1898 consecutive patients underwent skull CTs, comprising 836 men and 1062 women. RESULTS Among all 1898 patients, 333 (197 women and 136 men) presented with brain calcifications, representing an overall prevalence of 17.54%. The prevalence in the female group was 18.54% versus 16.26% in the male group. CONCLUSIONS A growth in incidental findings on CT scans are likely as these exams become more widely available. However, a current debate between radiologists and regulators is set to redefine the CT usage, especially in the United States and the United Kingdom, considering new norms for use and radiation dosage per exam.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Edison Barros e Silva
- MD, PhD, Neuropsychiatric Department - Federal University
of Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife PE, Brazil
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31
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Abstract
Acervuli are calcified concretions in the pineal gland (PG). Particularly interesting are their incidence and size, which are believed to affect neurological disorders and many physiological functions of PG such as regulating circadian rhythm. Despite long investigations for a century, detailed growth mechanism of acervuli has yet to be studied. Here we study the growth morphology of acervuli in human PGs by a direct visualization in 3-dimension (3-D) using a synchrotron X-ray imaging method. For an entire PG, non-aggregated acervuli show Gaussian distribution in size with 47±28 µm. The 3-D volume rendered images of acervuli reveal that the bumpy surfaces developed by lamination result in the mulberry-like structure. In addition, coalescence of multiple acervuli leads to large-scale lamination on the whole aggregate. We suggest a novel hypothesis on the growth patterns of acervuli by their nucleation density (Nd): i) mulberry-like structure at low Nd, and ii) large-scale lamination on an aggregate at high Nd.
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Sedghizadeh PP, Nguyen M, Enciso R. Intracranial physiological calcifications evaluated with cone beam CT. Dentomaxillofac Radiol 2012; 41:675-8. [PMID: 22842632 DOI: 10.1259/dmfr/33077422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to evaluate cone beam CT (CBCT) scans for the presence of physiological and pathological intracranial calcifications. METHODS CBCT scans from male and female patients that met our ascertainment criteria were evaluated retrospectively (n=500) for the presence of either physiological or pathological intracranial calcifications. RESULTS Out of the 500 patients evaluated, 176 had evidence of intracranial physiological calcification (35.2% prevalence), and none had evidence of pathological calcification. There was a 3:2 male-to-female ratio and no ethnic predilection; the ages of affected patients ranged from 13 years to 82 years with a mean age of 52 years. The majority of calcifications appeared in the pineal/habenular region (80%), with some also appearing in the choroid plexus region bilaterally (12%), and a smaller subset appearing in the petroclinoid ligament region bilaterally (8%). CONCLUSIONS Intracranial physiological calcifications can be a common finding on CBCT scans, whereas pathological intracranial calcifications are rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- P P Sedghizadeh
- USC Center for Biofilms, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, University of Southern California, 925 West 34 Street #4110, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
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Acer N, Ilıca AT, Turgut AT, Ozçelik O, Yıldırım B, Turgut M. Comparison of three methods for the estimation of pineal gland volume using magnetic resonance imaging. ScientificWorldJournal 2012; 2012:123412. [PMID: 22619577 PMCID: PMC3349090 DOI: 10.1100/2012/123412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2011] [Accepted: 11/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pineal gland is a very important neuroendocrine organ with many physiological functions such as regulating circadian rhythm. Radiologically, the pineal gland volume is clinically important because it is usually difficult to distinguish small pineal tumors via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Although many studies have estimated the pineal gland volume using different techniques, to the best of our knowledge, there has so far been no stereological work done on this subject. The objective of the current paper was to determine the pineal gland volume using stereological methods and by the region of interest (ROI) on MRI. In this paper, the pineal gland volumes were calculated in a total of 62 subjects (36 females, 26 males) who were free of any pineal lesions or tumors. The mean ± SD pineal gland volumes of the point-counting, planimetry, and ROI groups were 99.55 ± 51.34, 102.69 ± 40.39, and 104.33 ± 40.45 mm3, respectively. No significant difference was found among the methods of calculating pineal gland volume (P > 0.05). From these results, it can be concluded that each technique is an unbiased, efficient, and reliable method, ideally suitable for in vivo examination of MRI data for pineal gland volume estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niyazi Acer
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Erciyes University Kayseri, Turkey.
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