The light brown perinuclear pigment seen on H & E staining of the cardiac muscle fibres in the grossly normal appearing hea of an 83 year old man at autopsy is due to deposition of –
**Core Concept**
The question is testing the knowledge of **lipofuscin** pigment and its association with cardiac muscle fibers. Lipofuscin is a type of **age-related pigment** that accumulates in cells over time. It is particularly notable in the heart, where it can be seen in the perinuclear region of cardiac muscle fibers.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Lipofuscin is a **wear and tear pigment** that accumulates in cells as they age, resulting from the breakdown of cellular components. It is composed of **oxidized lipids** and appears as a light brown pigment under **H & E staining**. The perinuclear location of lipofuscin in cardiac muscle fibers is characteristic, making it a key diagnostic feature.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not correspond to the description of lipofuscin.
**Option B:** This option is also incorrect as it does not match the characteristics of the pigment in question.
**Option C:** Similarly, this option is incorrect as it does not relate to the age-related pigment seen in cardiac muscle fibers.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Lipofuscin accumulation is a **hallmark of aging** and can be seen in various tissues, including the heart, liver, and brain. Recognizing lipofuscin is important for distinguishing it from other pathologic pigments.
**Correct Answer:** D. Lipofuscin