Endophthalmitis: Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

What is Endophthalmitis?

Endophthalmitis is a severe inflammation of the eye’s interior, often involving the vitreous humor and/or aqueous humor. It’s considered a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment to prevent vision loss or even loss of the eye.

Symptoms

Endophthalmitis can manifest with various symptoms, including:

• Sudden Vision Loss: This can range from mild blurriness to complete loss of vision.
• Eye Pain: Often described as severe and deep within the eye.
• Redness and Swelling: The affected eye may appear red and swollen.
• Increased Sensitivity to Light: Photophobia can be pronounced in endophthalmitis.
• Floaters: Dark spots or lines may appear to float in the field of vision.

Causes

Endophthalmitis typically occurs as a complication of eye surgery or trauma, but it can also result from infections spreading from nearby structures. Common causes include:

• Cataract Surgery: Particularly if the surgical wound becomes infected.
• Intravitreal Injections: Used in the treatment of various eye conditions.
• Traumatic Eye Injuries: Penetrating injuries or foreign bodies can introduce pathogens into the eye.
• Bacterial or Fungal Infections: These can occur spontaneously or secondary to systemic infections.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of endophthalmitis requires a thorough eye examination, which may include:

• Visual Acuity Test: To assess the extent of vision loss.
• Slit Lamp Examination: To visualize the structures within the eye.
• Ocular Ultrasound: To evaluate the presence of inflammation and potential complications.

Treatment

Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent irreversible damage. Treatment options may include:

• Intravitreal Antibiotics or Antifungals: Administered directly into the eye to target the infection.
• Vitrectomy: Surgical removal of the vitreous humor to clear infection and debris.
• Systemic Antibiotics or Antifungals: In cases of severe infection or systemic involvement.

Prognosis

The prognosis for endophthalmitis varies depending on factors such as the severity of infection, promptness of treatment, and the patient’s overall health. Timely intervention can often prevent permanent vision loss, but in severe cases, vision may be significantly compromised.

Prevention

While not all cases of endophthalmitis can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:

• Strict Sterility: Maintaining a sterile environment during eye surgery or procedures.
• Prophylactic Antibiotics: Administered before and after surgery to reduce the risk of infection.
• Prompt Wound Care: Treating eye injuries promptly to prevent infection.

Endophthalmitis is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options is crucial for timely intervention and preservation of vision. If you experience any symptoms suggestive of endophthalmitis, seek prompt evaluation by an eye care professional.