Endophthalmitis

Endophthalmitis, or endophthalmia, is inflammation of the interior cavity of the eye, usually caused by an infection. It is a possible complication of all intraocular surgeries, particularly cataract surgery, and can result in loss of vision or loss of the eye itself. Infection can be caused by bacteria or fungi, and is classified as exogenous (infection introduced by direct inoculation as in surgery or penetrating trauma), or endogenous (organisms carried by blood vessels to the eye from another site of infection and is more common in people who have an immunocompromised state). Other non-infectious causes include toxins, allergic reactions, and retained intraocular foreign bodies. Intravitreal injections are a rare cause, with an incidence rate usually less than 0.05%. Endophthalmitis requires immediate medical attention to ensure the condition is diagnosed as soon as possible and treatment is started in order to reduce the risk of the person losing vision in the eye. Treatment options depend on the cause and whether the condition is caused by an endogenous or exogenous mechanism. For people with suspected exogenous endophthalmitis, a biopsy (vitreous tap) and treatment with antibiotics (usually by injection) is usually the first line of treatment. Once the person's response to the antibiotics is assessed, different further treatment options may be considered including surgery.