Corneal findings in rabbits with inherited glaucoma

A. Cohen-Michaeli*, J. L. Jacot, M. Rosner, A. S. Solomon

*Corresponding author for this work

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Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate and characterize the morphological and histological changes of corneas from rabbits with inherited glaucoma. Methods: Corneas of rabbits with inherited glaucoma were examined in vivo by slit-lamp biomicroscopy and their diameter measured. Endothelial cell density was determined by corneal bank microscopy on freshly enucleated eyes. Corneas were evaluated grossly and fixed in 4% buffered paraformaldehyde. Stained sections (H&E, 6 μm thick) of the corneas were studied by light microscopy. A nonspecific acetylcholinesterase stain was used for demonstration of the nerves in corneal wholemounts. Results: The corneas of rabbits with glaucoma (average IOP 30mmHg, normotensive average IOP 20mmHg) were characterized by buphthalmia and cloudiness. The average corneal diameter (± SD) from glaucomatous eyes was 17 ± 1 mm whereas that from normal eyes was 12 ± 1 mm. Corneal endothelial cell density was significantly decreased (800 cells/mm2) in glaucomatous eyes compared to corneas from normotensive eyes (2800-3000 cells/mm2). Hypercellular scarring in the stroma with polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration and superficial endothelial cell degeneration were observed by light microscopy Corneal edema was not apparent. Nonspecific acetylcholinesterase staining revealed tortuous stromal nerve fibers. Conclusion: The corneas of rabbits with inherited glaucoma were adversely affected. The histopathological findings included: corneal enlargement, cloudiness, presence of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in the stroma with scarring, endothelial degeneration, and tortuosity of stromal nerves. The functional significance of these histological changes remains to be elucidated.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)S189
JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science
Volume37
Issue number3
StatePublished - 15 Feb 1996

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