Diagnostic techniques

Use of the ocular microbiology techniques described in this article when inoculating specimens greatly reduces, if not eliminates, the confusion that occurs when an organism that is part of the normal flora or that is common in the environment is found in specimens of ocular material. The growth of microorganisms can be quantified. The results of lid and conjunctival cultures can be compared with growth from the cornea or anterior chamber and vitreous fluids to provide clues to the likely significance of the isolate.