DIAGNOSTIC IMPRESSION CYTOLOGY - A SIMPLE TECHNIQUE FOR THE DIAGNOSISOF EXTERNAL EYE DISEASE

The technique of impression cytology was used for cytologic examinatio n of conjunctival samples from 128 patients with a variety of external eye diseases. The method of sample collection and the staining proced ure are described. Microscopic examination showed 62 cases with allerg ic conjunctivitis, 23 with bacterial or viral infection, 26 cases with changes typical of dry eye and 17 cases with non-specific chronic inf lammation. The cytologic features and numerous applications of impress ion cytology are discussed.