[Morphological study of the disruption of the blood-aqueous barrier following paracentesis]

Long-term morphological changes of the blood-aqueous barrier following paracentesis were studied in monkeys. Horseradish peroxidase molecules given intravenously were detected in the intercellular space beyond the tight junction between the nonpigmented ciliary epithelial cells in a monkey 7 days after the operation. The data demonstrated that the breakdown of the blood-aqueous barrier was not functionally repaired 7 days after the operation. Cysts were observed at the most anterior portions of the ciliary processes in monkeys surviving for 14 days to 1 year. These cysts consisted of two layers of both pigmented and nonpigmented epithelial cells. These findings suggest that the breakdown of the blood-aqueous barrier remains not to be repaired for log periods.