Application of specific red blood cell adherence test to the human cornea and conjunctiva.

We modified the specific red blood cell adherence test used in the study of blood group antigens to apply to the human cornea and conjuctiva. For the first time this test was applied to these ocular tissues with considerably specificity and sensitivity. The test revealed a concentration of blood group antigens in the epithelium of cornea and conjunctiva and along the corneal endothelium, whereas it was absent in the stroma. The test is useful in studying ABO compatibility in corneal transplants.