A new and standardized method to sample and analyse vitreous biopsies by the Cellient® automated cell block system

Abstract

AbstractPurpose In this prospective study a universal protocol for sampling and analysing vitreous material was investigated. Vitreous biopsies are difficult to handle because of the paucity of cells and the gelatinous structure of the vitreous. Histopathological analysis of the vitreous is useful in difficult uveitis cases to differentiate uveitis from lymphoma or infection and to define the type of cellular reactionMethods 170 consecutive vitreous samples were analysed with the Cellient® tissue processor (Hologic). This machine is a fully automated processor starting from a specified container with PreservCyt® (fixative fluid) with cells to paraffin. Cytology was compared with fixatives Cytolyt® (contains a mucolyticum) and Preservcyt®. Routine histochemical and immunostainings were evaluatedResults In 92% of the cases, sufficient material was found for diagnosis. In 14%, a Cytolyt® wash was necessary to prevent clotting of the tubes in the Cellient® due to the viscosity of the sample. In 23% the diagnosis was an acute inflammation (presence of granulocytes), in 33% chronic active inflammation (presence of T‐lymphocytes), in 33% low‐grade inflammation (presence of CD68 cells, without T‐lymphocytes); and in 3% a malignant processConclusion A standardized protocol for sampling and handling vitreous biopsies, fixing in PreservCyt® and processing by the Cellient® gives a superior result in morphology, number of cells, and possibility of immuno‐histochemical stainings. The diagnosis can be established or confirmed in more than 90% of cases