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Bacterial endophthalmitis

INTRODUCTION

Endophthalmitis refers to bacterial or fungal infection of the vitreous or aqueous humor of the eye. It is not caused by viruses or parasites, as these organisms infect the retina or uvea, leading to retinitis or uveitis (eg, cytomegalovirus [CMV] retinitis, toxoplasma chorioretinitis).

Most cases of endophthalmitis are due to bacteria and present acutely. Acute bacterial endophthalmitis is a vision-threatening condition and must be managed as an emergency. The clinical outcome depends both upon the virulence of the infecting organism and the speed with which appropriate therapy is initiated.

Endophthalmitis can be divided into six categories:

  • Acute postcataract surgery
  • Chronic pseudophakic
  • Bleb-related
  • Posttraumatic
  • Endogenous
  • Fungal

The epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of the first five categories of endophthalmitis will be reviewed here. Fungal endophthalmitis is discussed separately. (See "Fungal endophthalmitis".)
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