The Lipofuscin-Iron Association in Pigmentosis Tubae

Pigmentosis tubae (PT) is a rare condition characterized by the presence of numerous lipofuscin-laden macrophages in the lamina propria of the fallopian tube. Two women, who also had endometriotic ovarian cysts, showed polypoid pigmented tubal mucosae. In addition to lipofuscin, occasional cells showed spotty positivity for iron. Ultrastructural examination of the tubal mucosa showed the lipofuscin-containing bodies, which were similar to lipofuscin-containing lysosomes found in other pigmented conditions. Cytoplasmatic ferritin and hemosiderin in siderosomes were observed in macrophages and endothelial cells of the lamina propria. The present study is the first to demonstrate the presence of iron-containing particles and lipofuscin in the residual bodies of PT. The origin of the excess iron is not clear, but erythrophagocytosis and an abnormal tubal environment could play a role. Iron-promoted lipid peroxidation may alter the lysosomal membranes and contribute to the excessive accumulation of lipofuscin in these cells.