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Gemella haemolysans keratitis and consecutive endophthalmitis
David Ritterband1, Mahendra Shah, Michael Kresloff
1Department of Ophthalmology, The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York 10003, USA. ritterband@msn.com
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|January 29, 2002
Summary
Gemella hemolysans caused a rare case of severe eye infection, leading to keratitis and endophthalmitis. Prompt treatment including surgery and antibiotics successfully resolved the infection and preserved vision.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Ocular infections can lead to severe vision loss.
- Gemella hemolysans is an uncommon pathogen, often misidentified.
- Immunocompromised patients are at increased risk for opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old woman with sarcoidosis on chronic systemic prednisone developed bacterial keratitis.
- The keratitis progressed to endophthalmitis in the left eye.
- Corneal, aqueous, and vitreous cultures identified Gemella hemolysans.
Findings:
- Emergent keratoplasty, pars plana vitrectomy, and intravitreal antibiotics were performed.
- The patient experienced resolution of the ocular infection.
- Vision improved, and the corneal graft remained clear five months post-operatively after antibiotic cessation.
Implications:
- This case highlights Gemella hemolysans as a potential cause of severe ocular infections.
- Early diagnosis and aggressive management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Awareness of this pathogen is important for ophthalmologists and infectious disease specialists.