[Endogenous candida endophthalmitis. Early diagnosis and early vitrectomy improve the prognosis]

Our records on endogenous Candida endophthalmitis in 13 eyes in 10 patients are presented. The diagnosis was confirmed by culture from vitreous aspirate or serologic examination. The records show that cases with immediate diagnosis and treatment by antimycotics and vitrectomy have a better prognosis than late diagnosis or treatment without vitrectomy. Only the 4 cases that were vitrectomized within 4 weeks after onset of the complaints resulted in good visual acuity (greater than 2/5). The other cases were often complicated by traction, retinal scars or choroidal proliferation. Unclear uveitis with a high risk for fungal infection in the patient's history should be evaluated for Candida infection. Every patient with candidemia needs periodic ophthalmologic examinations for endophthalmitis. Diagnosis, treatment and possible prevention of endogenous Candida endophthalmitis are discussed.