[Pseudomonas aeruginosa unilateral endogenous endophthalmitis in a preterm infant: a case report]

C Vasseneix1, C Trouilloud, N Afroukh

  • 1Service d'ophtalmologie, centre hospitalier de Valence, 179, boulevard Maréchal-Juin, 26000 Valence, France. vasseneix@hotmail.com

Insights

Endogenous endophthalmitis in preterm infants is a severe condition. Prompt diagnosis and tailored antibiotic treatment, including intravitreous injections, are crucial for better visual and vital outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Endogenous endophthalmitis is a rare but serious eye infection.
  • It disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including preterm infants.

Observation:

  • A preterm infant developed Pseudomonas aeruginosa endogenous endophthalmitis secondary to catheter-associated bacteremia.
  • The infant received initial intravenous antibiotics, followed by intravitreous Ceftazidime and subconjunctival betamethasone.

Findings:

  • Despite treatment, the infant developed vitreoretinal retraction, phacophagia, necessitating a vitrectomy.
  • This case highlights the severe visual and vital prognosis associated with this condition.

Implications:

  • Emphasizes the critical need for rapid biological diagnosis to guide appropriate antibiotic therapy.
  • Suggests the potential value of antibiotic intravitreous injections in managing endophthalmitis in preterm neonates.