Fine structure of the Pick and Hirano bodies in a case of Pick's disease.

Abstract

Brain tissue from an autopsied case of Pick's disease was studied by light and electron microscopy. Intraneuronal argentophilic Pick bodies were most numerous in the pyramidal cells of the hippocampus. By electron microscopy, these inclusions consisted of a conglomeration of granules enmeshed in an irregular network of proliferated neurofilaments. There were also multiple eosinophilic juxtaneuronal structures (Hirano bodies). By electron microscopy these consisted of interwoven sheaves of beaded and continuous filaments. The possible location of the Hirano bodies within degenerating axonal terminals is discussed.