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Conjunctival concretions. Polarized microscopic, histopathologic, and ultrastructural studies
1Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei.
Archives of Ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|March 1, 1990
Summary
Conjunctival concretions are primarily formed from mucinous secretions of transformed conjunctival glands and degenerated epithelial cells. These findings clarify the pathophysiology of these eye conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Conjunctival concretions are a common finding in chronic conjunctivitis.
- Their exact pathophysiologic origin remains incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the pathophysiologic features of conjunctival concretions.
- To investigate the cellular and molecular composition of these formations.
Main Methods:
- Polarized microscopic examinations
- Immunocytochemical studies
- Histochemical stains (Periodic acid-Schiff, Mucicarmine)
- Electron microscopic studies
- Analysis of concretion samples from five patients with chronic conjunctivitis.
Main Results:
- Electron-dense secretory granules (0.2-0.5 micron) were identified in superficial lining epithelial cells of the pseudogland of Henle.
- These granules stained positively for Periodic acid-Schiff and Mucicarmine.
- Concretions exhibited granular and membranous figures indicative of degenerating epithelial cells and secretory granules.
Conclusions:
- Conjunctival concretions are predominantly composed of mucinous secretions from transformed conjunctival glands.
- Degenerative products of epithelial cells contribute to the composition of these concretions.
- This study clarifies the cellular origin and composition of conjunctival concretions.