Transvitreal retinochoroidal biopsy

Abstract

Biopsies from retina and/or choroid were performed through a transvitreal approach in 14 patients during the 2-year period 1984-1986. A 20-gauge fine needle was used. The transvitreal approach was chosen because exact location of the biopsy could be documented by video recording and/or by photography. The needle was guided either by a stereotactic micromanipulator or by hand. Immediately after biopsy laser burns were placed around the biopsy hole. Light microscopical and, in selected cases, transmission electron microscopical examination of the material obtained showed malignant melanoma, choroidal haemorrhage, leukaemic infiltration of the choroid, intraretinal fibrosis in detached retina, atrophic retina after vasculitis and malignant lymphoma of the uvea. More than 2 years after biopsy, no retinal detachment due to the biopsy or any tumour-seeding has been observed. Two cases of vitreous haemorrhage cleared spontaneously. No visual impairment was related to the biopsies.