[Asteroid hyalopathy. Ultrastructural study of 3 cases]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Vitreoretinal Surgery
• Electron Microscopy

Background:

• Asteroid hyalosis is a degenerative condition of the vitreous humor.
• It is often associated with systemic diseases like diabetes mellitus and alcoholic neuropathy.
• Surgical intervention, such as vitrectomy, may be necessary for visual rehabilitation.

Observation:

• Vitreous samples from three patients with asteroid hyalosis were analyzed.
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed rounded structures connected by fibrous strands.
• Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed multilaminar membranes characteristic of complex lipids and calcific bodies.

Findings:

• Asteroid bodies are composed of intertwined ribbons of multilaminar membranes, rich in complex lipids (phospholipids).
• Calcific deposits, primarily calcium and phosphorus, were detected within the asteroid bodies using Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDAX).
• No cellular remnants were observed in the asteroid bodies.

Implications:

• Understanding the composition of asteroid bodies aids in diagnosing and managing the condition.
• The findings provide insights into the ultrastructural and elemental composition of asteroid hyalosis.
• Further research may explore the pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets for asteroid hyalosis.