Morphometric study of the human muscle spindle.

Authors :: Kararizou E
Manta P
Kalfakis N
Vassilopoulos D
Source :: Analytical and quantitative cytology and histology [Anal Quant Cytol Histol] 2005 Feb; Vol. 27 (1), pp. 1-4.
Publication Year :: 2005
Abstract: Objective: To study the morphometric characteristics of the human muscle spindle in normal muscle and to investigate the influence of aging.<br />Study Design: The following variables were studied in 72 spindles: area and diameter of the spindle; thickness of the capsule; number, area and diameter of fibers; and number and area of nuclei.<br />Results: In deltoid and extensor digitorum brevis muscles, a reduction in the diameter of the spindle as a function of age was found, while no statistically significant change in the variables as a function of age was observed in the quadriceps femoris and biceps muscles. In the deltoid, a reduction in the number of fibers and an increase in their diameter were also observed.<br />Conclusion: These findings could prove useful in the study of the spindle in relation to disease.