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Endogenous endophthalmitis caused by Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans
Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology. Journal Canadien D'Ophtalmologie
|December 1, 1986
Summary
Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, a rare pathogen, caused endophthalmitis in a patient with periodontal disease. This case marks the first culture-proven instance of this eye infection linked to Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans is an uncommon human pathogen, primarily associated with endocarditis and severe periodontal disease.
- Endophthalmitis, an intraocular infection, can lead to significant vision loss and is typically caused by other microorganisms.
Observation:
- A 51-year-old female presented with acute anterior iridocyclitis, progressing to lens nodule and vitreous involvement.
- The patient had a 3-month history of periodontal disease preceding her admission.
- Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans was isolated from blood cultures over 40 days and, crucially, from the vitreous humor.
Findings:
- This report details the first culture-proven case of endophthalmitis caused by Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans.
- The ocular infection followed a period of destructive periodontal disease in the patient.
- While previous cases of endophthalmitis were suspected, the organism was never before isolated from the eye.
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of infections caused by Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans.
- Highlights the importance of considering Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans in severe ocular infections, especially in patients with pre-existing periodontal disease.
- Suggests a potential route of hematogenous spread from periodontal infection to the eye.