Name of the Procedure:

Biopsy of Conjunctiva
Common Name: Conjunctival Biopsy
Technical Term: Conjunctival Tissue Biopsy

Summary

A biopsy of the conjunctiva involves the removal of a small sample of tissue from the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. This sample is then examined under a microscope for diagnostic purposes.

Purpose

The biopsy is primarily conducted to diagnose abnormalities and diseases of the conjunctiva, such as inflammation, infections, tumors, or other ocular surface disorders. The goal is to accurately identify the underlying cause of conjunctival abnormalities to guide appropriate treatment.

Indications

• Persistent redness or irritation of the eye
• Unexplained conjunctival mass or lesion
• Chronic conjunctivitis unresponsive to standard treatments
• Suspicion of malignant or pre-malignant conditions, such as conjunctival melanoma or carcinoma
• Autoimmune diseases affecting the conjunctiva

Preparation

• Follow any fasting instructions, which may not typically be necessary for this procedure.
• Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking; you may need to adjust or stop certain medications.
• A thorough eye examination and possibly imaging tests may be conducted prior to the biopsy.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthetic drops are applied to numb the eye.
2. A small section of conjunctival tissue is carefully excised using fine surgical instruments.
3. The tissue sample is placed in a preservative solution and sent to a laboratory for histopathological examination.
4. The surgical site may be closed with fine sutures if necessary, which will dissolve on their own.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized eye care center.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist (Eye Surgeon)
• Ophthalmic Nurse
• Histopathologist (for tissue analysis)

Risks and Complications

• Mild pain or discomfort after the procedure
• Infection at the biopsy site
• Bleeding or bruising of the eye
• Scarring of the conjunctiva
• Very rare risk of damage to the underlying structures of the eye

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of conjunctival diseases
• Tailored treatment plan based on biopsy results
• Early detection of malignancies, allowing for prompt intervention

Recovery

• Apply prescribed antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops.
• Avoid rubbing or touching the eye.
• Use cool compresses to reduce swelling or discomfort.
• Follow-up appointment within a week to check healing and discuss biopsy results.
• Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days, though strenuous activities should be avoided for about a week.

Alternatives

• Non-invasive imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), although they may not provide a definitive diagnosis.
• Blood tests or swabs to check for infections or systemic conditions.
• Empirical treatment based on clinical examination, without tissue biopsy, which might delay accurate diagnosis.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will feel pressure but should not feel pain due to the anesthetic drops. Post-procedure, there might be mild discomfort, redness, or swelling in the eye, which can be managed with medication. Pain is generally minimal and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers.