Age-related macular degeneration: ultrastructural studies of the relationship of leucocytes to angiogenesis.
We describe the ultrastructural features of subretinal neovascularisation associated with the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The choroidal origin of new vessels was confirmed, and ultrastructural details are presented. Serial sectioning of new vessels revealed a relationship between leucocytes and neovascular structures. The results are discussed in the context of the previously established role of leucocytes in angiogenesis. Our results provide circumstantial evidence, based on morphological observations, for the involvement of leucocytes in the promotion of neovascular proliferation and exudation from new vessels.
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D006801:Humans; D007962:Leukocytes / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D008268:Macular Degeneration / Q000473:pathology*; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D009389:Neovascularization, Pathologic / Q000473:pathology*; D012160:Retina / Q000098:blood supply*