[Epithelial invasion of the anterior chamber : exploration by scanning electron microscopy (author's transl)]

Transfixing keratoplasty was performed in a patient seven years after a lens extraction, following the appearance of corneal edema with hypertony and proliferation of a retrocorneal veil. Scanning electron microscopy examination of the posterior surface of the removed graft demonstrated the presence of a vast cellular veil formed of epithelial cells. The principal characteristics of these cells were their polygonal shape, slightly raised edges, and the presence of numerous surface microvilli. Because of the particular characteristics of this epithelium, scanning electron microscopy can be used to observe mitoses in the deep layer as well as for differentiation of the superficial layers. The epithelial cell appears to be identical, as far as its evolution is concerned, both in the aqueous humor and when in contact with the lacrymal film. When compared with other modern investigational techniques, the scanning electron microscope appears to be an effective method for studying epithelial invasion of the anterior chamber. In fact, optical microscopy is of little value in such cases, and transmitted light electron microscopy too heavy a technique for the results expected. Scanning electron microscopy enables precise definition of epithelial cells and can confirm their corneal or conjunctival origin.