myelin pallor
Reduced intensity of myelin staining indicating partial demyelination or myelin loss in white matter tracts.
Full Definition
Myelin pallor describes the reduced staining intensity of myelin sheaths in white matter, typically observed with myelin-specific stains such as Luxol fast blue or immunohistochemistry for myelin basic protein. This finding represents partial demyelination or myelin damage that falls short of complete myelin loss. Myelin pallor can be seen in various conditions including multiple sclerosis, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, and hypoxic-ischemic injury. The assessment of myelin pallor requires careful comparison with adjacent normal-appearing white matter and consideration of tissue processing factors that might affect staining intensity.
Usage
Usage note: Requires comparison with normal areas; confirm with appropriate myelin stains.
In Context
- "Areas of myelin pallor were evident in the periventricular white matter on LFB staining." — Multiple sclerosis case
- "The centrum semiovale showed patchy myelin pallor without complete demyelination." — White matter pathology