Retrocorneal membrane with myofibroblasts after perforating injury: an immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study of 11 cases.
OBJECTIVE
Retrocorneal membranes (RCMs) are sometimes present after perforating corneal injury, including failed corneal grafts. This study was performed to understand the origin and cellular composition of these RCMs.


METHODS
Eleven cases of fibrous RCM associated with perforating injury and ulceration were studied by light and electron microscopy. Monoclonal antibodies against vimentin, actin, and alpha-smooth muscle actin (SMA) were used for immunohistochemical analysis.


RESULTS
Retrocorneal membranes varied in thickness, extent, and cellularity. There was invariably a direct connection between RCM and wound scar through a gap in Descemet's membrane. Eight RCM and three scars of perforating wounds showed actin- or SMA-positive, vimentin-positive, spindle-shaped cells consistent with myofibroblasts. Electron microscopy showed fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in RCM. Descemet's membrane was often wrinkled in proximity to RCM with myofibroblasts.


CONCLUSIONS
The scar tissue in corneal wounds is an apparent source of RCM components after perforating corneal injury, extending through gaps in Descemet's membrane. Contractile myofibroblasts are present in some RCMs and may be responsible for wrinkling of Descemet's membrane.
Cockerham
G C
GC
Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Department of Ophthalmic Pathology, Washington, DC 20306-6000, USA.
Hidayat
A A
AA
D000199:Actins / Q000378:metabolism; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003315:Cornea / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D065306:Corneal Injuries; D005131:Eye Injuries / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D005347:Fibroblasts / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D007223:Infant; D008566:Membranes / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D008875:Middle Aged; D009130:Muscle, Smooth / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D014746:Vimentin / Q000378:metabolism
D000199:Actins; D014746:Vimentin