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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.

Endophthalmitis

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Surgical Management Services

Our Surgical Management Services cover a spectrum of critical eye procedures, including retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, vitreomacular traction, nucleus drop + IOL drop, endophthalmitis, and trauma interventions. Led by Dr. Harsh Inder Singh, our highly skilled team is dedicated to providing expert surgical care for various eye conditions. We combine advanced surgical techniques with a patient-centric approach to ensure optimal outcomes and patient satisfaction.

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Retinal detachment is a serious eye emergency that requires prompt surgical intervention. Our experienced surgeons specialize in retinal detachment repair, restoring vision and preventing permanent vision loss. Learn more about our expertise in retinal detachment surgery.

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Vitreous Hemorrhage (Bleeding In Eye)

Vitreous hemorrhage refers to bleeding into the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance inside the eye. Our skilled team provides surgical management for vitreous hemorrhage, addressing the underlying cause and restoring visual clarity.

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Vitreomacular traction, macular hole, and epiretinal membrane (ERM) are conditions affecting the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Our surgeons specialize in delicate procedures to address these conditions

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Nucleus drop + IOL drop

Nucleus drop and intraocular lens (IOL) drop are complications that can occur during cataract surgery. Our surgical team is skilled in managing these complications swiftly and effectively to ensure optimal outcomes for our patients.

Endophthalmitis

Endophthalmitis

Endophthalmitis is a severe eye infection that can result in vision loss if not promptly treated. Our specialists are experienced in the diagnosis and surgical management of endophthalmitis, providing timely intervention to preserve vision.

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Eye trauma requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage and vision loss. Our team is equipped to handle various types of ocular trauma, providing comprehensive care to restore eye health and function.

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