Posters

Histological and immunohistochemical findings in congenital cataracts with persistent fetal vasculature

Poster Details

First Author: N.Ondrova CZECH REPUBLIC

Co Author(s):    J. Cendelin   J. Uhlik   J. Sach              

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To compare histological structure and to identify the origin of the plaques of posterior capsule found in children during surgery for congenital cataracts using immunohistochemistry to identify the types of collagen present. To determine how are these plaques related to persistent fetal vasculature (PFV).

Setting:

The Department of Ophthalmology for Children and the Adults of the 2nd LF UK and UH Motol

Methods:

We examined samples from posterior capsule during cataract surgery in 10 children with congenital cataract (age during surgery from 4 weeks to 6 months), where apart from clouding of the lens material, an abnormality in posterior capsule such as plaques and signs of PFV, were present. This sample was then histologically processed and using immunohistochemical staining we identified the type of collagen present. We assume, that lens capsule contains collagen type IV, but never contains collagen type II. Contrariwise, we assume that vitreous contains collagen type II, but never contains collagen type IV.

Results:

The findings were diverse. In most cases, the posterior capsule was affected in a form of thinning, splitting into multiple membranes and other irregularities. In some cases, epithelial cells were adhering to the capsule. In other cases, an adhesion between the capsule and anterior vitreous membrane was apparent. Fibrovascular membranes were found both behind and in front of the capsule. Staining for collagen was often helpful in identifying its location. The processed samples can be divided into two groups with similar morphology. In the first group we found abundantly cellular material with vasculature or its remnants. The lens capsule identified by collagen IV staining was irregular with varying thickness, covering fibrovascular plaque. In the second group the cellular material is present minimally, we mostly found intercellular elements, however we found elements of mesenchymal origin. The lens capsule was regular with thin adhering membrane that was collagen II positive. This staining helps us to identify dysgenesis of vitreolenticular interface that indicates PFV.

Conclusions:

These histological findings help us to better understand the diverse abnormalities that we find in children with congenital cataract and the process of regression of ocular vasculature. Our findings indicate significant malformation of posterior capsule in congenital cataracts with PFV, that do not correspond with previously described animal ontogenetic models. In some cases we can assume, that malformation of posterior capsule may be primary etiopathogenetic factor for PFV.

Financial Disclosure:

None