Visualization of Subconjunctival Lymphatics and Its Significance.

Kim, Jee Taek; Kim, Jae Hoon; Kim, Jae Chan

doi:2008.49.8.1215

J Korean Ophthalmol Soc > Volume 49(8); 2008 > Article

Original Article

Journal of the Korean Ophthalmological Society 2008;49(8):1215-1219.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3341/jkos.2008.49.8.1215 Published online August 15, 2008.

Visualization of Subconjunctival Lymphatics and Its Significance.

Jee Taek Kim, Jae Hoon Kim, Jae Chan Kim

Department of Ophthalmology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. jck50ey@kornet.net

결막하 림프관의 관찰과 그 의미

김지택ㆍ김재훈ㆍ김재찬

Department of Ophthalmology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea

Abstract

PURPOSE
To observe and characterize subconjunctival lymphatics in patients with subconjunctival hemorrhages. METHODS: Patients who visited our clinic with subconjunctival hemorrhage resulting from ocular trauma, or subconjunctival injection of gentamicin and betamethasone during a cataract operation, were included in this study. Subconjunctival hemorrhages and subconjunctival lymphatics were observed using slit lamp biomicroscopy. RESULTS: Apparent dilated lymphatics were found in one patient with subconjunctival hemorrhage after rubbing of the eye; thin lymphatics were found in 10 patients with traumatic subconjunctival hemorrhages; and apparent dilated lymphatics were found in 10 patients after subconjunctival injection. Slit lamp biomicroscopy using a green filter allowed easy visualization of subconjunctival lymphatics. CONCLUSIONS: Subconjunctival lymphatics, which are not visible in normal ocular conditions, are evident on subconjunctival hemorrhages, especially after subconjunctival drug injection.

Key Words: Conjunctiva;Subconjunctival hemorrhages;Subconjunctival lymphatics