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Potential artifacts in scanning electron microscopy of the trabecular meshwork in glaucoma
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|November 1, 1980
Summary
Scanning electron microscopy revealed artifacts in trabeculectomy specimens, primarily from globe decompression. These contaminants, including amorphous and fibrillar material, can mimic blockages in the trabecular meshwork, affecting glaucoma research.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Trabecular meshwork (TM) is crucial for aqueous humor outflow.
- Artifacts in surgical specimens can confound research findings.
- Previous studies suggested amorphous material blocks TM in open-angle glaucoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate artifacts in trabeculectomy specimens using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- Identify contaminants introduced during specimen collection and preparation.
- Clarify the presence of blocking materials in the TM of glaucoma patients.
Main Methods:
- SEM analysis of trabecular meshwork from human eyes.
- Comparison of tissue from normal, glaucomatous, and enucleated/autopsied eyes.
- Examination of specimens processed for trabeculectomy versus control tissues.
Main Results:
- Major contaminants observed include amorphous substance, fibrillar material, and red blood cells, likely from globe decompression.
- Silver paint used for SEM stubs can coat the TM, mimicking a smooth blockage.
- Unable to confirm amorphous blocking material within TM interstices in open-angle glaucoma patients.
Conclusions:
- Globe decompression during trabeculectomy is a significant source of specimen contamination.
- Artifacts, such as silver paint, can be misinterpreted as pathological TM blockages.
- The presence of amorphous blocking material in open-angle glaucoma TM requires further investigation.