Immunohistochemical analysis of idiopathic epiretinal membranes

The purpose of the study is pathomorphological characterization of idiopathic epiretinal membranes (iERM) after removing them during vitreoretinal procedures for a more accurate understanding of their formation, including immunohistochemical detection of fibrogenic factors and adhesion proteins (TGFbl, fibronectin, laminin, GFAP). Materials and Methods. We examined biopsy material, i. e. idiopathic epiretinal membranes removed from patients during surgical interventions. We used general histological (hematoxylin and eosin staining), histochemical (Mallory and Weigert staining), immunohistochemical (IHCh) (TGFbl, fibronectin, laminin, GFAP), and morphometric methods. Results. iERM contain collagen fibers in their composition. The thickness of the membrane depends on the number of collagen fibers. The priority cells are radial gliocytes in the initiation of their occurrence. They contribute to stimulation of fibroblastic cells and expression of fibrogenic factors by the vitreal interface cells: TGFbl, fibronectin, laminin. Conclusion. Accumulation of fibroblastic cells and collagen can contribute to the development and progression of the neurodegenerative process, strengthen contractions and reduce elastic properties. This leads to traction, retinal rupture and reduced vision. Pathomorphological study of iERM using IHCh techniques allows to apply adequate tactics to combat vitreal fibrosis and make a constructive decision about the urgency of intravitreal peeling.