How Does Histology Help in Diagnosing Ocular Diseases?
Histological examination can reveal changes at the cellular and tissue levels that are indicative of various ocular diseases. For instance:
Glaucoma: Characterized by the loss of retinal ganglion cells and thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer. Cataracts: Changes in the lens fibers and the accumulation of proteins lead to lens opacification. Diabetic Retinopathy: Histological changes include microaneurysms, hemorrhages, and proliferation of new blood vessels in the retina. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Drusen deposits and degeneration of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) are key histological features.