Methodologies for Microscopic Characterization of Ocular Toxicity

The eye is unique in being composed of different types of structures with various functions. One needs to be aware of these unique aspects and changes due to spontaneous, iatrogenic, or environmental conditions in order to detect toxicologic ocular changes. Since most ocular structures can be examined clinically, with or without specialized instruments, it is important to obtain microscopic correlates for clinical findings. This requires special attention to the techniques involved in obtaining good histologic sections for evaluation. Findings in standard histologic sections may be further characterized by use of immunohistochemistry or electron microscopy and appropriate terminology is important when identifying findings. This chapter will review all of these aspects of the microscopic examination for ocular toxicity.