[Scanning electron microscopy image of the cells of the conjunctival epithelium in specimens from impression cytology].

Impression cytology specimens of the conjunctiva can be examined by scanning electron microscopy. If a cellulose-acetate filter is pressed onto the conjunctiva, the microvilli-bearing epithelium becomes so firmly attached to the fine meshwork of the filter that the most superficial conjunctival cell layers adhere to the filter. When the filter is removed intercellular connections are destroyed without any damage to the cell membranes being detectable in the SEM image. Since the surface of the corneal epithelium is spread out on the filter and is firmly attached to it the lateral bond between the cells is preserved. Shrinkage is minimal. The posterior surface of the epithelial cells, facing the observer, consists of smooth, porous cell membranes. The nuclei of many cells are clearly distinguishable. Since it can be directly compared with light-microscopic specimens, the SEM image can help provide answers to morphological and pathological questions, and may represent a useful diagnostic aid.