[Histology of the pineal gland in the elderly human].

Abstract

2700 Non-selected pineal bodies from autopsied infants and subjects up to the 9th decade were weighted and studied histologically. The results show, that post-pubertal atrophy does not occur. Histologically, no sex-specific difference exists. Variations in weight are present only. In the first decade the mean weight is 80-100 mg, rising steadily to reach a maximum of 150-160 mg in the fifth decade. Later on the pineal, on an average, is larger and heavier in women. Pineal weight relationship to the hypophysis and the brain remains constant throughout adult life. In advanced age a general increase in the amount of supporting tissue is observed corresponding to structural fibrosis also occurring in other organs. This shows no age-dependent distribution pattern, does not occur at the expense of the parenchymal cells and is not related to calcification or weight. Calcifications, fibroses glioses and cysts are already found in neonates, statistically only being more frequently present in the higher age groups. A true, general, selective senile atrophy of the pineal does not occur, even in relation to the weight of the brain in the same decade. The quantitative and qualitative analysis of the elements, based on radiofluorescence and radiorefraction, will be discussed in detail. The causes of the recently reported depression of reagibility are still in discussion.