Immunoprotein deposition in the cornea

Ophthalmology. 1980 Sep;87(9):944-50. doi: 10.1016/s0161-6420(80)35154-3.

Abstract

A 63-year old woman had bilateral, multi-level corneal deposits distributed as fine, discrete crystals and in dense, deep geographic patches. She had a long history of sero-positive rheumatoid arthritis. Autopsy revealed an unsuspected lymphoproliferative disorder and immune-complex disease. Histologic examination of the eyes revealed eosinophilic, PAS-positive, noncollagenous deposits in the cornea at all levels and also in the ciliary processes, pars plana, and choroid. Stains for gold, amyloid, and acid mucopolysaccharides were negative. Immunoperoxidase stains were positive for IgG most strongly, and also for IgA, kappa and lambda light chains. Transmission electron microscopy showed needle-like electron-dense extracellular particles which we presume are immunoglobulins.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Cornea / ultrastructure
  • Corneal Opacity / immunology*
  • Corneal Opacity / pathology
  • Crystallization
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immune Complex Diseases / complications
  • Immune Complex Diseases / pathology
  • Immunoglobulins*
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Myeloma / complications
  • Multiple Myeloma / pathology

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins