Experimental study of the retinal toxicity of hemoglobinic iron

The functional consequences of vitreous hemorrhage on the retina were studied using a rabbit experimental model. The repartition of hemoglobinic iron inside the retina was assessed after the intravitreous injection of 59Fe-labeled erythrocytes. Electroretinographic studies were performed both in vivo after the intravitreous injection of labeled blood and in vitro on albino rat isolated retina treated with Fe ions. Results indicate that hemoglobinic iron migrates from the vitreous to the retina and inside the retinal tissue from ganglion cells to deeper layers. It is also demonstrated that hemoglobinic iron has a significant functional toxicity on the retina.