A cytoplasmic membranous complex in histiocytosis X

Abstract

In biopsy specimens obtained from 54 cases of histiocytosis X, and examined by electron microscope, a cytoplasmic membranous complex was observed in a small number of the characteristic cells, either in bone, skin, and lung samples, or in cell cultures obtained from bone lesions. This complex appears to be related to the granular endoplasmic reticulum. Its description includes a study with a tilting microscope; its nature and significance so far are unknown. Similar features observed in other materials, especially in experimental tumors, are reviewed.