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Bacterial corneoscleritis complicating pterygium excision
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Southern California School of Medicine, Los Angeles.
Abstract:
Pterygium excision was complicated by bacterial corneoscleritis and endophthalmitis in two patients, one who had received postoperative beta irradiation and the other topical thiotepa. These complications followed surgery by two and six weeks. Causative organisms were Streptococcus pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively. Despite aggressive therapy, visual outcome was poor in both cases. These cases demonstrate that, although infrequent, complications of pterygium excision can be destructive and visually disabling.
Insights
Pterygium excision can lead to severe bacterial infections like corneoscleritis and endophthalmitis, even after treatment. These rare but serious complications can cause significant vision loss.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Pterygium excision is a common surgical procedure.
- Postoperative management may involve beta irradiation or topical thiotepa.
Observation:
- Two patients developed severe postoperative complications following pterygium excision.
- Complications included bacterial corneoscleritis and endophthalmitis.
- Onset occurred two and six weeks post-surgery.
Findings:
- Infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- Aggressive treatment yielded poor visual outcomes in both cases.
- Beta irradiation and topical thiotepa were used in postoperative management.
Implications:
- Pterygium excision complications, though infrequent, can be visually disabling.
- Highlights the risk of severe infections post-pterygium surgery.
- Emphasizes the need for vigilant monitoring and prompt management of postoperative complications.