[Endophthalmitis and toxic lens syndrome. Differential diagnosis and therapy]

Inflammatory reactions following cataract extraction and implantation of an intraocular lens are rare complications. In a group of 10,000 patients the incidence of toxic lens syndrome was 0.15%; infections were seen in 0.07% of the cases. Except for two patients with toxic lens syndrome associated with cystoid macular edema, all ultimately had good visual acuity. While toxic lens syndrome is seen in the first postoperative week or recurs at a later date and responds very well to corticosteroids, bacterial endophthalmitis usually develops on the first postoperative day, with fulminant progress. Mycotic infections occur after a longer interval and temporarily respond better to corticosteroids. The endophthalmitis should be treated early with a vitrectomy to eliminate micro-organisms and toxic agents, and to achieve a high intraocular level of antibiotics and antimycotics. From June 1982 to June 1987, thirteen patients with endophthalmitis after cataract extraction were vitrectomized. Navigating visual acuity was ultimately achieved in eight cases. Two patients developed a phthisis bulbi and one a recurrent mycosis. Thus, altogether, an inflammation-free eye with navigating visual acuity can be achieved in over 50% of cases.