Immunotoxicity, Immune Dysfunction, and Chronic Disease

Abstract

The identification of microscopic toxicologic changes in the lens and posterior segment is influenced by many factors. Important factors include in vivo procedures, such as route of administration, and procedures involved in preparation of the eye for microscopic examination which have been discussed in the previous chapter. A wide variety of toxins may affect the lens and posterior segment, but toxic changes must be differentiated from iatrogenic and spontaneous changes. Both the toxic and spontaneous changes may be influenced by the type of species, strain of animal, or an animal’s age. Understanding these differences, as well as knowledge of the normal anatomy, physiology, and function of ocular structures, will help in detecting toxicologic changes. This chapter is a continuation of the previous chapter with a focus on findings of the lens and posterior segment of the eye.