Scleral Inflammation around Collector Channels in Eyes with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma

Purpose: Investigating the existence of inflammation in the distal outflow system posterior of the Schlemm's canal in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Methods: Scleral biopsies (n = 62) from POAG-patients were taken during deep sclerectomy and fixed either in formalin or RNAlater (R). Histologic (hematoxylin & eosin) and immunohistological staining for CD 3 and CD 45RO were performed. Results: Cellular infiltration of immunocompetent cells (CD 3 and CD 45RO positive cells) exists around collector channels (CC). This inflammation is limited to the area around the CCs. Ninety-two percent of the biopsies are positive for inflammation. Untreated, dysgenetic glaucoma eyes and 8% of POAG eyes were negative for inflammation. Neither the use of benzalkonium chloride nor the number and type of preoperative antiglaucomatous medication correlated to the immunohistological result. Conclusion: In POAG a diverse cellular infiltration exists around the CCs in the vast majority of biopsies. This could have major diagnostic and therapeutic consequences for the treatment of POAG.

Automated summary

The study revealed the existence of cellular infiltration inflammation in the distal outflow system posterior of the Schlemm's canal in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), which is limited to the area around the collector channels. 92% of biopsies showed positive results, indicating significant diagnostic and therapeutic implications for the treatment of POAG.