Post-surgical versus post-intravitreal injection endophthalmitis: changing patterns in causative flora.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Endophthalmitis is a severe intraocular infection that can arise after various eye procedures.
• Understanding the specific pathogens and patient outcomes is crucial for effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the spectrum of causative organisms in acute post-procedural endophthalmitis.
• To determine the clinical outcomes and visual acuity improvements in patients with endophthalmitis following intraocular procedures.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective observational case series was conducted.
• Data from 248 patients diagnosed with acute endophthalmitis (≤ 6 weeks post-procedure) were analyzed.
• Microbiological and clinical data were collected via chart review.

Main Results:

• Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most common causative organism identified.
• Causative organisms were identified in 45% of post-cataract surgery and 54% of post-injection cases.
• Visual acuity improved by 3 months in 81% of post-surgical and 84% of post-injection cases.

Conclusions:

• Staphylococcus epidermidis remains the primary cause of post-procedural endophthalmitis.
• Unlike previous studies, this research found no increased risk of Streptococcus species endophthalmitis after intravitreal injections.
• Findings may reflect updated clinical practices and guidelines influencing infection rates.