Histochemical localization of superoxide production in experimental autoimmune uveitis.

Although the presence and role of oxygen reactive species in uveal inflammation is the subject of intense investigation, there is little direct evidence that oxygen metabolites are present at the site of inflammation. We used the nitroblue tetrazolium test for superoxide to determine production of this oxygen reactive species in experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU). The choroidal tissues of animals with this disease contained intracellular, blue-staining granules. Most of the positive staining cells appeared to be polymorphonuclear leukocytes. This localization of superoxide in EAU is further evidence of the generation of oxygen reactive species in uveal inflammation.