CLINICOPATHOLOGICAL CORRELATION OF AN EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE-ASSOCIATED WITH A RECURRENT MACULAR HOLE

Purpose: To describe the clinicopathologic features of an epiretinal m embrane associated with a recurrent, full-thickness idiopathic macular hole and speculate on the mechanism(s) contributing to its recurrence 1 year after initially successful closure of pars plana vitrectomy an d gas tamponade (SF6). Methods: After fixation of the 2 X 1 mm specime n in a mixture of 1% glutaraldehyde and 4% formaldehyde followed by 2. 5% glutaraldehyde, postfixation with osmium tetroxide, and standard de hydration, the specimen was embedded in epoxy resin. Ultrathin section s were stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate for transmission e lectron microscopy. Results: Ultrastructural examination disclosed a f ibrocellular membrane composed of Muller cells and fibrous astrocytes. Native collagen was entrapped in the matrix in some areas, Conclusion : Those cells that may lead to the closure of an idiopathic macular ho le may also contribute to its recurrence if the reparative process goe s awry.