Ultrastructural Demonstration of Intracellular Bacteria in Three Cases of Malakoplakia of the Bladder

Abstract

Intracellular, rod-shaped bacteria were found in three cases of malakoplakia of the urinary bladder. Histologic and ultrastructural studies showed a relationship between these bacteria, the large lipid membranous inclusions, and Michaelis–Gutmann bodies. Various transitional forms were noted. The authors conclude that the histologic appearance of malakoplakia is caused by the degradation and host response to intracellular bacteria, followed by calcification. An infectious etiology is proposed for malakoplakia of the urinary bladder.