Endophthalmitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
An endophthalmitis is an infection of the vitreous fluid inside the eye, and it may cause severe pain, redness, swelling, and vision loss. Endophthalmitis is an emergency condition that must be treated as soon as possible to avoid permanent damage.
Causes of Endophthalmitis
Endophthalmitis can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites that enter the eye through:
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An eye injury, such as a puncture wound, a foreign body, or a chemical burn
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An eye surgery, such as cataract removal, glaucoma surgery, or corneal transplant
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An infection in another part of the body, such as the sinuses, the teeth, or the bloodstream, that spreads to the eye
Symptoms of Endophthalmitis
The symptoms of endophthalmitis usually develop within a few days of the eye injury or surgery, or within a few weeks of the infection in another part of the body. The symptoms may include:
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Severe eye pain
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Blurred or decreased vision
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Sensitivity to light
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Redness and swelling of the eye and eyelids
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Discharge or pus from the eye
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Fever and chills
Diagnosis of Endophthalmitis
To diagnose endophthalmitis, an eye doctor will examine the eye and ask about the history of the eye injury, surgery, or infection. The eye doctor may also perform some tests, such as:
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A slit-lamp examination, which uses a special microscope and a bright light to look at the structures of the eye
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A fundus examination, which uses a device called an ophthalmoscope to look at the back of the eye, including the retina and the optic nerve
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A vitreous tap, which involves taking a small sample of the fluid inside the eye for laboratory analysis
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An ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create an image of the eye and detect any abnormalities
Treatment of Endophthalmitis
The treatment of endophthalmitis depends on the cause and severity of the infection. The treatment may include:
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Antibiotics, antifungals, or antiparasitics, which are given as eye drops, injections, or pills to kill the microorganisms causing the infection
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Steroids, which are given as eye drops or injections to reduce inflammation and swelling
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Vitrectomy, which is a surgery that removes the infected vitreous and replaces it with a clear fluid or a gas bubble
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Enucleation, which is a surgery that removes the entire eye if the infection is too severe and the vision is beyond recovery
Prevention of Endophthalmitis
Endophthalmitis can be prevented by taking some precautions, such as:
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Wearing protective eyewear when working with sharp objects, chemicals, or animals
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Seeking immediate medical attention for any eye injury or infection
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Following the instructions of the eye doctor after any eye surgery, such as using the prescribed eye drops, avoiding rubbing or touching the eye, and keeping the eye clean and dry
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Practicing good hygiene, such as washing the hands frequently, especially before and after touching the eye
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Treating any infection in another part of the body, such as the sinuses, the teeth, or the bloodstream, as soon as possible
When left untreated, endophthalmitis can result in permanent vision loss. Because of this, it is important to recognize the symptoms and seek medical assistance as soon as possible. In most cases, endophthalmitis can be cured and vision preserved with proper treatment.
