Polycarbonate membrane impression cytology: evidence for fluorescein staining in normal and dry eye corneas

Abstract

Polycarbonate membrane impression cytology enables immediate assessment with rapid stains. Topically applied fluorescein penetrates corneal epithelial cells in both normal and dry eye patients. Cells fluoresce on the cytology membranes. The impression-induced defect on the cornea is not due to cell stripping and may represent removal of mucins.