A Merkel Cell Nuclear Inclusion

Abstract

Unusual inclusions of various structural types have been known to exist in the nuclei of some cells. However, their observation with the electron microscope is an infrequent occurrence. Intranuclear inclusions in brain cells represent the vast majority at reported observations. While studying the ultrastructure of the Merkel cell in human oral epithelium, we noted a unique intranuclear inclusion in several cells. This structure appeared to be identical to an intranuclear rodlet which has been described as occurring frequently in neurons of the primary olfactory system of the cat.