Endophthalmitis in Oslo, Norway.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Endophthalmitis (EO) is a serious intraocular inflammation, often leading to vision loss.
• Understanding the incidence and causes of EO is crucial for preventative strategies.
• Post-surgical and post-injection complications require ongoing surveillance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence, etiology, and visual outcomes of endophthalmitis (EO) at Oslo University Hospital.
• To compare the incidence of post-cataract surgery EO (PCE) and post-injection EO (PIE).
• To identify common pathogens and treatment efficacy for EO.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective registry study reviewed medical records of all EO patients treated at Oslo University Hospital over two years.
• Incidence rates for PCE and PIE were calculated based on the number of procedures performed.
• Culture results and visual outcomes post-treatment were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The study identified 46 EO eyes from 44 patients, including 19 PCE and 6 PIE.
• Incidence of PCE was 0.21 per 1000 surgeries at OUS, and PIE was 0.08 per 1000 injections.
• PCE incidence was significantly higher (OR 8.0) than PIE, with Staphylococcus epidermidis being the most common pathogen. 48% achieved significant visual improvement.

Conclusions:

• The overall risk of PCE and PIE is low at Oslo University Hospital.
• Post-cataract surgery endophthalmitis occurs more frequently than post-injection endophthalmitis.
• Early treatment can lead to significant visual function improvement in a substantial proportion of EO cases.