lissaminegreen

Lissamine green, commonly referred to as lissamine green B, is a water-soluble dye used as a vital stain in ophthalmology to evaluate the health of the ocular surface. It stains devitalized epithelial cells and mucous on the conjunctiva and cornea, helping clinicians identify areas of damage or abnormal tear film in conditions such as dry eye disease. The dye is typically applied as an ophthalmic solution or impregnated strip and is observed with a slit lamp under white or blue light, where staining appears as a greenish coloration of damaged tissue.

In clinical practice, lissamine green is often used in conjunction with fluorescein staining. While fluorescein highlights epithelial defects and cracks, lissamine green emphasizes areas of surface staining, mucus, and goblet cell secretions, providing complementary information about ocular surface integrity. Lissamine green is commonly favored for being less irritating to the ocular surface than rose bengal, although transient stinging can occur in some patients.

Safety and availability: Lissamine green solutions are prepared for topical ophthalmic use and are typically administered by clinicians in single-use doses. As with all ocular dyes, it should be used by trained personnel, with consideration for potential allergic reactions or sensitivities. It is not intended for unsupervised self-treatment.