Endophthalmitis

 👁 What is Endophthalmitis?

Endophthalmitis is a severe inflammation of the inside of the eye, usually caused by an infection. It affects the vitreous and/or aqueous humor (the fluid-filled parts inside your eye) and can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated quickly.

It’s rare — but when it happens, it's serious.



🧫 Causes of Endophthalmitis

There are two main types:

🔹 Exogenous (most common)

This occurs when bacteria or fungi enter the eye from outside — typically after:

  • Eye surgery (especially cataract surgery)

  • Eye injections (like for macular degeneration)

  • Eye trauma (injuries or puncture wounds)

🔹 Endogenous

This is when infection spreads from elsewhere in the body through the bloodstream. It’s more common in people with:

  • Weakened immune systems

  • Chronic illnesses (like diabetes or cancer)

  • IV drug use or systemic infections

🚨 Signs & Symptoms

Endophthalmitis often appears suddenly, usually within a few days after surgery or trauma.

Watch for:

  • Severe eye pain

  • Decreased or blurry vision

  • Redness and swelling

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Pus or discharge

  • Floaters or hazy vision

  • In some cases: fever (especially in endogenous cases)

⏱ Don't wait — these symptoms are a medical emergency!

🏥 Diagnosis & Urgent Treatment

Time is vision. Here's what usually happens when someone presents with suspected endophthalmitis:

  • Immediate eye exam using slit lamp and ultrasound

  • Samples of intraocular fluid are taken to identify the organism (called a “tap”)

  • Culture & sensitivity tests to guide treatment

Treatment may include:

  • Intravitreal antibiotics/antifungals (directly injected into the eye)

  • Vitrectomy (surgical removal of infected vitreous in severe cases)

  • Systemic antibiotics (especially in endogenous cases)

⚠️ Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk if you:

  • Recently had eye surgery

  • Suffered a penetrating eye injury

  • Have uncontrolled diabetes

  • Are immunocompromised

  • Use IV drugs

  • Have had multiple intraocular injections

👓 Prevention Tips

  • Follow all post-surgical instructions

  • Keep hands and face clean during recovery

  • Don't skip follow-up appointments

  • Report any unusual symptoms immediately

  • Surgeons must use strict sterile techniques

🧠 Final Thoughts

Endophthalmitis might be rare, but when it strikes, every minute counts. It’s a sobering reminder that the eyes are delicate and must be cared for with precision — especially after surgery or injury.

If you or someone you know experiences sudden pain, redness, or vision changes after an eye procedure or trauma, get emergency eye care ASAP.

👁️ Your sight is worth the urgency.

Comments

Post a Comment