Impression cytology is a type of surface sampling, non-invasive and safe, during which a cellulose acetate filter (in the form of paper or special membranes) is used to remove the surface layers of the epithelium from the surface of the eye.

The removed cells can then be subjected to cytological evaluations, immunocytochemistry or molecular analysis.

The main applications of impression cytology are to diagnose eye surface malignancies, especially squamous cell malignancies, as well as evaluating the health status or deficiency of corneal limbus stem cells in cases such as chemical burns, congenital diseases, and previous trauma. Examination and grading of squamous metaplasia is one of its other uses. The eye bank is a referral center and the main center for eye cytology impression sampling and interpretation in the country, which is done by an ophthalmologist/eye pathology subspecialist in collaboration with a general pathologist. accept