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This abstract is assigned to session Poster session in O'Bistro

Title

A new and standardised method to sample and analyse vitreous samples

Purpose	To investigate and prepare a universal protocol for sampling and analysing vitreous material. Vitreous biopsies are difficult to handle because of the paucity of cells, the gelatinous formation and structure of the vitreous, the low frequency of biopsies and the burden of long-during, delicate handwork by the technician. Vitreous biopsies can be very useful in uveitis in difficult cases and can differentiate common uveitis from lymphoma, low-grade infectious diseases and rare causes of vitreal opacification
Methods	After a standardised 23gauge vitrectomy, 50 consecutive vitreous samples were analysed with the Cellient® tissue processor (Hologic). This machine is a fully automatic processor from a specified container with PreservCyt® (fixative fluid) with cells to paraffin. Cytology was compared with fixatives Cytolyt® ( contains a mucolyticum) and Preservcyt®.
Results	In 96% (48 of 50 cases) sufficient material was found for diagnosis. Cytolyt® wash was necessary in 15% of cases to prevent clotting of the delicate tubes in the Cellient®, this procedure causes a loss of cellular material. Immuno-histochemical stainings were equal in quality with both preservatives. Labour hours of processing by technician was diminished by 4, compared with former, not-standardised techniques.
Conclusion	A standardised protocol for sampling and handling viteous biopsies by a 23G vitrectomy, fixing in PreservCyt® and processing by the Cellient® gives a superior result in morphology, number of cells, possibility of immuno-histochemical stainings and technician labour hours. The diagnosis can be established or confirmed in nearly all cases.

Authors 1

Last name	VAN GINDERDEUREN
Initials	R
Department	Oogziekten
City	Leuven

Authors 2

Last name	Van Calster
Initials	J
Department	Oogziekten
City	Leuven