Endogenous septic endophthalmitis in severe acute hepatitis with septicemia

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global health concern.
• Severe hepatitis can lead to serious systemic complications.
• Endogenous endophthalmitis is a rare but sight-threatening intraocular infection.

Observation:

• A case of endogenous bacterial endophthalmitis is described in an HBV carrier.
• The patient experienced severe hepatitis complicated by anaerobic septicemia.
• Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis was also suspected in this patient.

Findings:

• The endophthalmitis was attributed to endogenous bacteria originating from the bloodstream.
• Anaerobic bacteremia secondary to severe hepatitis was the likely source.
• This case highlights a potential new complication of severe hepatitis.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider endogenous bacterial endophthalmitis in HBV carriers with severe hepatitis and signs of bacteremia.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preserve vision.
• Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms linking severe hepatitis and endogenous endophthalmitis.