Second harmonic generation microscopy to investigate collagen configuration: a pericarditis case study

Cardiovasc Pathol. 2010 Jul-Aug;19(4):e125-8. doi: 10.1016/j.carpath.2009.06.001. Epub 2009 Jul 24.

Abstract

We have used second-harmonic-generation (SHG) to image collagen fibers in pericardial tissue removed from a patient with constrictive pericarditis and compared this to healthy pericardium. SHG imaging allowed for the visualization of collagen fibers without the need for staining or pretreatment. Images were compared to stained histology slides. Collagen fibers in SHG and histology images displayed the same structure and morphology. The mature collagen of the parietal pericardium was easily distinguishable from the new collagen accumulation due to the pericarditis. SHG imaging can provide a convenient and valuable architectural profile of collagen organization.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Fibrillar Collagens / chemistry
  • Fibrillar Collagens / ultrastructure*
  • Fourier Analysis
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Male
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence / methods*
  • Pericarditis / pathology*
  • Pericarditis / surgery
  • Pericardium / chemistry
  • Pericardium / pathology*
  • Pericardium / surgery
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Fibrillar Collagens