What is Endophthalmitis?
Endophthalmitis is a condition when there is severe inflammation of the tissues in the eye. This eye condition is typically is caused by an infection from bacteria or fungi. It can also most commonly occur after penetration of the eye from trauma or eye surgery or an eye procedure. It may also be caused by a blood stream infection (bacteremia/ fungemia) that spreads to the eye (Endogenous endophthalmitis).
Symptoms
Typical symptoms include a decline of vision, eye pain and increased ocular redness or swelling. If these symptoms are present after surgery, you should contact your doctor immediately. This condition often develops two to five days after major eye surgery.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Patients that are showing symptoms should undergo an urgent eye exam with a retina specialist. Additional exams may also be necessary. Prompt diagnosis of Endophthalmitis is important and can be treated with intraocular antibiotics, antibiotic eye drops +/- oral antibiotics and sometimes steroids. In severe cases eye surgery maybe indicated.