Platelet-derived growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor immunolocalized in proliferative retinal diseases

Objective To study the role of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and ba sic fibroblast growth factor ( bFGF) in the development of proliferative vi treoretinopathy (PVR). Methods Immunohistochemical localization was performed on frozen sections o f the epiretinal or subretinal membranes from 21 PVR patients using! monocl onal antibodies against PDGF and bFGF and the streptavidin peroxidase syste m. Results PDGF was expressed in 15 of 21 specimens (71.4%), and bFGF was expr essed in 14 specimens (66.7%). Different cell density was seen in different types of epiretinal membranes. The cell density of vascular membranes indu ced by PDR and fates disease was the highest ( greater than or equal to 61 cells/field, x 1000); nonvascular membranes induced by PVR or traumatic PVR had moderate cell density (31 - 60 cells/field); and the macular membrane had the lowest cell density (less than or equal to 30 cells/field). Conclusion The presents of PDGF and bFGF in PVR tissues suggest that PDGF a nd bFGF may play an important role in the development of PVR.