Innovative pathology techniques for small tissue samples or cytology of vitreous biopsies

Abstract

SummaryVitreal samples contain only very few cells in comparison with cytology specimens from other medical specialists and oncology samples. The gelatinous structure of fine fibrils in the vitreal gel interferes with normal cytology protocols. The former treatment of steroids induces apoptosis of fragile lymphoma cells. The rarity of these masquerade syndromes give less experience and causes delay in referring and diagnosis. For all these reasons a routine and standardized protocol in an experienced referral center is necessary. Concentration or centrifugation of the cells in solution is mandatory. The Cellient® from Hologic is an automated embedding system from a cytology specimen to a paraffin block. Very small fragments and cells or cell clusters can be automatically handled without loss of material. All routine histochemical and immunologic stainings can be performed on a small representative portion of the sample. Genetic analysis are possible with the used fixatives of PreservCyt® and Cytolyt®. Flow cytometry is an alternative way to discriminate the cells, but without histology.