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[Chronic conjunctivitis caused by oral anaerobic germs]
A J van Winkelhoff1, F Abbas, M J Pavicic
1Academisch Centrum Tandheelkunde Amsterdam, vakgroep Orale Microbiologie.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|December 28, 1991
Summary
Chronic conjunctivitis caused by oral bacteria Prevotella intermedia was successfully treated with systemic antibiotics. This finding highlights the oral cavity as a reservoir for ocular infections and the efficacy of targeted systemic therapy.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Genomics
Background:
- Chronic conjunctivitis can be challenging to treat, often involving complex bacterial ecosystems.
- Identifying the source and specific pathogens is crucial for effective therapeutic strategies.
Observation:
- A patient presented with persistent unilateral conjunctivitis.
- The predominant bacteria identified were Prevotella intermedia and Peptostreptococcus micros.
- Genomic analysis suggested Prevotella intermedia originated from the patient's oral cavity, found on the tongue, tonsils, and in periodontal pockets.
Findings:
- Previous topical antibiotic treatments were ineffective.
- Systemic therapy with metronidazole and amoxicillin successfully resolved the chronic conjunctivitis.
- Restriction endonuclease fingerprinting confirmed the oral origin of the ocular Prevotella intermedia isolate.
Implications:
- The oral cavity can serve as a reservoir for pathogenic bacteria causing ocular infections.
- Systemic antibiotic therapy can be effective for refractory conjunctivitis linked to specific oral flora.
- This case underscores the importance of considering oral-ocular connections in managing persistent eye infections.