Question
In a patient suffering from Breast Carcinoma with normal calcium levels,histopathological examination of breast shows the following picture.From the following given options,which statement is false regarding this pathological process(shown in the image marked by arrows)?
A. Cause is increased binding of phosphates with degenerated tissues which in turn bind with calcium forming precipitates
B. Calcium metabolism is normal
C. Occurs in dead and degenerated tissues
D. Reversible
Show Answer
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Correct Answer » D
Explanation
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Ans:D. Reversible
Dystrophic Calcification is shown in the image.
PATHOLOGIC CALCIFICATION
- Deposition of calcium salts in tissues other than osteoid or enamel is called pathologic or heterotopic calcification.
- Two distinct types of pathologic calcification are recognised:
- Dystrophic calcification, which is characterised by deposition of calcium salts in dead or degenerated tissues with normal calcium metabolism and normal serum calcium levels.
- Metastatic calcification, on the other hand, occurs in apparently normal tissues and is associated with deranged calcium metabolism and hypercalcaemia.
- Histologically, in routine H and E stained sections, calcium salts appear as deeply basophilic, irregular and granular clumps.
- The deposits may be intracellular, extracellular, or at both locations. Occasionally, heterotopic bone formation (ossification) may occur.
- Calcium deposits can be confirmed by special stains like silver impregnation method of von-Kossa producing black colour, and alizarin red S that produces red staining.