Sphingomonas paucimobilis keratitis post cataract surgery: First case report from India

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Sphingomonas paucimobilis is an uncommon Gram-negative bacillus typically found in soil.
• Intraocular infections caused by S. paucimobilis are exceedingly rare, with limited documented cases.

Observation:

• This report details the first case of S. paucimobilis keratitis following cataract surgery in India.
• The patient presented with an intraocular infection attributed to this rare bacterial species.

Findings:

• The S. paucimobilis infection demonstrated resistance to initial medical interventions.
• Successful treatment was achieved through a patch graft procedure.
• The patient's final visual acuity improved to 20/40 post-treatment.

Implications:

• Highlights the potential for rare bacteria like S. paucimobilis to cause serious ophthalmic complications after surgery.
• Emphasizes the importance of considering unusual pathogens in refractory post-operative endophthalmitis.
• Suggests surgical intervention may be crucial for managing such rare infections.