Vitreous Cysts

Vitreous cysts generally occur in eyes with no other pathologic findings, but they have been noted in retinitis pigmentosa and uveitis, as well as in eyes with remnants of the hyaloid system. These cysts may be clear, or they may be pigmented owing to the presence of pigment epithelium. Histologic studies have suggested the presence of hyaloid remnants in vitreous cysts. The exact origin of the cysts is not known.

Figure 10-3 Bergmeister papilla. A, Gross photograph of an infant eye showing a fingerlike projection of whitish tissue (arrow) from the surface of the optic nerve head. B, Low-magnification photomicrograph of part A showing fibroglial tissue (arrow) projecting into the vitreous cavity from the optic nerve head. C, High-magnification photomicrograph of Bergmeister papilla demonstrating loose fibrous connective tissue with a small capillary (arrow), surrounded by a thin layer of fibrous astrocyte-like cells (arrowhead).

(Courtesy of Robert H. Rosa Jr, MD.)

Excerpted from BCSC 2020-2021 series: Section 4 - Ophthalmic Pathology and Intraocular Tumors. For more information and to purchase the entire series, please visit https://www.aao.org/bcsc.