Conjunctival impression cytology for goblet cells’ count is a simple, non-invasive means of studying cells on the conjunctiva. It is carried out by pressing a small piece of special filter paper against the anaesthetized bulbar conjunctiva for a few seconds, after which it is removed. The operation is usually repeated two or three times over the same area. The filter paper is then fixed to a glass slide, stained, and examined under a microscope. Mucin, goblet, and many epithelial cells which stain in different colors, depending on the dyes used, can be assessed. This facilitates the diagnosis of many external eye diseases, such as keratoconjunctivitis sicca and xerophthalmia.
References
Dictionary of Optometry and Visual Science
Millodot M.
7th edition. © 2009 Butterworth-Heinemann