Laser microprobe mass spectrometric identification of cyclosporin-induced intrarenal microliths in rat.

Using laser microprobe mass analysis (LAMMA), the composition of 'micro-calcifications (dystrophic type)' or 'metastatic calcifications', previously described in rats given high doses of cyclosporin, have been identified. Female Wistar rats given 12.5, 25 or 50 mg kg-1 per day of cyclosporin in olive oil by gastric gavage developed intrarenal calcifications detected by silver nitrate staining (von Kossa) in the outer medulla after two weeks.

Use of laser microprobe mass analysis (LAMMA) for localizing multiple elements in soft and hard tissues.

The potential of laser microprobe mass analysis (LAMMA) as a sensitive microanalytical technique was explored in applications relevant to nephrology. Aluminum and associated elements, such as iron, were localized in fresh tissue biopsies obtained from uremic patients treatment by chronic hemodialysis. The LAMMA was applied to serum, liver, bone, and parathyroid glands of such patients.

Applications of laser microprobe mass analysis in medicine.

An instrument for laser microprobe mass analysis (LAMMA) has been available for applied research for several years. The value of this sensitive microanalytical technique has been demonstrated in various fields of science, including medicine and biology. The LAMMA instrument comprises two laser systems.