Electron microscopy findings on an intraocular lens in the uveitis, glaucoma, hyphaema syndrome.

PURPOSE

To report the electron microscopic findings on an explanted intraocular lens in a patient with the uveitis, glaucoma, hyphaema syndrome.

METHODS

Scanning and transmission electron microscopy were undertaken on a coccoon of cellular material from the tip of the intraocular lens haptic.

RESULTS

Scanning electron micrographs showed densely packed coccoid-like structures on the haptic surface. By transmission electron microscopy these structures proved to be melanosomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The scanning electron micrographs described in this report are similar to those reported in patients with chronic post-operative uveitis, but to our knowledge have not been shown before in association with the uveitis, glaucoma, hyphaema syndrome. Transmission electron microscopy determined that the coccoid-like structures were melanosomes. The melanosomes are probably derived from damaged pigment epithelial cells or iris stromal melanocytes secondary to recurrent chafing of the haptic against the posterior surface of the iris.