CLINICOPATHOLOGIC CORRELATION OF AN EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE ASSOCIATED WITH A RECURRENT MACULAR HOLE

Abstract

To describe the clinicopathologic features of an epiretinal membrane associated with a recurrent, full-thickness idiopathic macular hole and speculate on the mechanism(s) contributing to its recurrence 1 year after initially successful closure of pars plana vitrectomy and gas tamponade (SF6). After fixation of the 2 X 1 mm specimen in a mixture of 1% glutaraldehyde and 4% formaldehyde followed by 2.5% glutaraldehyde, postfixation with osmium tetroxide, and standard dehydration, the specimen was embedded in epoxy resin. Ultrathin sections were stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate for transmission electron microscopy. Ultrastructural examination disclosed a fibrocellular membrane composed of Müller cells and fibrous astrocytes. Native collagen was entrapped in the matrix in some areas. Those cells that may lead to the closure of an idiopathic macular hole may also contribute to its recurrence if the reparative process goes awry.