Differentiation of mulberry bodies (cells) from oval fat bodies using distinct fat staining methods

抄録

　

Objective: The detection of mulberry bodies (cells) in urine facilitates the early diagnosis of Fabry disease. However, their detection is difficult because of their very small size and various shapes when stained with Sternheimer 's staining. We investigated methods to specifically detect the various appearances of mulberry bodies (cells).

　

Methods: The urinary sediments of patients with Fabry disease were subjected to Sternheimer 's staining, and the mulberry bodies (cells) and oval fat bodies were compared using four fat staining methods (Sudan III, Oil Red O, Nile blue, and Sudan black B).

　

Results: Differentiation between mulberry bodies (cells) and oval fat bodies using Sternheimer 's, Sudan III staining was difficult. In contrast, they were clearly identified and distinguished when Nile blue and Sudan black B staining was performed. From the perspective of differentiating from OFBs, Sudan III and Oil Red O seemed more useful, as they show clear differences in stainability. On the other hand, for positively staining mulberry cells themselves, Nile blue and Sudan black B appear useful.

　

Conclusions: Mulberry bodies (cells) have various appearances. Although they are difficult to distinguish from oval fat bodies, they can be identified using Sudan III and Oil Red O, Nile blue and Sudan black B staining.