Patient Information Resources


Mackie Orthopaedics
Lower Level 2, Calvary Medical Centre
49 Augusta Road
Lenah Valley, Tas 7008, Australia
Ph: 61362281490
Fax: 61362281449
clinic@mackie.net.au






Ankle
Child Orthopedics
Elbow
Foot
Fractures
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Pain Management
Shoulder
Wrist

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I've heard there's actually an "age pigment" that colors the cells inside our body an ugly brown. Is this true?

Actually, yes, but not all cells are affected. Lipofuscin is an "age pigment" that accumulates in certain parts of the body. The nervous system is affected the most, especially the cells of the brain, spinal column, and nerve tissue. The nondividing cells of muscle fibers (including the heart) are also affected. In fact, the age of the heart can be determined by how much lipofuscin is present.

It is a yellowish-brown pigment and does collect as we age. Lipofuscin is left over from the breakdown and absorption of damaged blood cells. It is also found as a fatty byproduct of cell metabolism. It's what gives earwax its distinctive color.


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