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Endophthalmitis caused by Mycobacterium abscessus.
P Marín-Casanova1, J L Calandria Amiguetti, P García-Martos
1Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitario "Puerta del Mar," Cádiz, Spain. micro.hpm.sspe@juntaandalucia.es
European Journal of Ophthalmology
|January 1, 2004
Summary
Mycobacterium abscessus can cause endophthalmitis, an eye infection, even in immunocompetent individuals. This case highlights the risk following ocular surgery, emphasizing careful diagnosis of this rare pathogen.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Endophthalmitis is a severe intraocular inflammation, often post-surgical.
- Mycobacterium abscessus is an emerging opportunistic pathogen.
- Immunocompetent individuals can be susceptible to atypical infections.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old immunocompetent woman developed endophthalmitis after cataract surgery.
- Clinical signs included vitreous cells, chorioretinal infiltrates, and vasculitis.
- Laboratory analysis revealed acid-fast bacilli in vitreous aspirates.
Findings:
- Cultures identified the causative agent as Mycobacterium abscessus.
- The patient presented with endophthalmitis and crystalline keratopathy.
- No underlying systemic pathology was identified.
Implications:
- Surgical intervention is a significant risk factor for Mycobacterium abscessus endophthalmitis.
- Exogenous contamination should be considered in post-operative endophthalmitis cases.
- Early microbiological diagnosis is crucial for appropriate treatment of this rare infection.