Diagnostic impression cytology: a simple technique for the diagnosis of external eye disease.

The technique of impression cytology was used for cytologic examination of conjunctival samples from 128 patients with a variety of external eye diseases. The method of sample collection and the staining procedure are described. Microscopic examination showed 62 cases with allergic conjunctivitis, 23 with bacterial or viral infection, 26 cases with changes typical of dry eye and 17 cases with non-specific chronic inflammation. The cytologic features and numerous applications of impression cytology are discussed.