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[A case of post-traumatic Absidia corymbifera fungal endophthalmitis]
I Houtmann1, F Bacin, S Amara-Allieu
1Service d'Ophtalmologie, Hôpital Gabriel Montpied, CHRU, Clermont-Ferrand.
Abstract:
Exogenous fungal endophthalmitis is a rare postoperative and posttraumatic complication with, often, a dreadful prognosis. We report one case of Absidia corymbifera endophthalmitis after penetrating injury with a retained intraocular vegetable foreign body. We focus on the risk factors for the development of fungal endophthalmitis (vegetable foreign body, corticotherapy) and the importance of ocular fluid samples for stain and appropriate culture. In this case, the treatment associating contaminated tissue extraction and systemic and intravitreal administration of antifungal agents was efficient.
Insights
Fungal endophthalmitis, a rare complication from eye injuries, can be effectively treated. Early diagnosis through ocular fluid analysis and prompt treatment with antifungal agents and surgery are crucial for managing Absidia corymbifera infections.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Exogenous fungal endophthalmitis is a rare but severe complication following eye trauma or surgery.
- Vegetable foreign bodies and corticosteroid use are significant risk factors.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical for preventing vision loss.
Observation:
- A case of Absidia corymbifera endophthalmitis occurred after a penetrating eye injury with a retained vegetable foreign body.
- Ocular fluid samples were essential for identifying the causative fungus via staining and culture.
- Risk factors identified included the retained vegetable foreign body and prior corticosteroid therapy.
Findings:
- Surgical removal of contaminated tissue combined with systemic and intravitreal antifungal administration proved effective.
- Absidia corymbifera was identified as the fungal pathogen responsible for the endophthalmitis.
- Aggressive and multimodal treatment led to a favorable outcome in this challenging case.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering fungal infections in post-traumatic endophthalmitis, especially with vegetable matter involvement.
- Ocular fluid analysis is paramount for accurate and timely diagnosis of fungal endophthalmitis.
- A combination of surgical intervention and targeted antifungal therapy offers a viable treatment strategy for such infections.