Endogenous endophthalmitis due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia in a patient with COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Endogenous endophthalmitis is an intraocular infection originating from a distant systemic source.
• Risk factors include immunosuppression and bacteremia, increasing the likelihood of ocular seeding.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent vision loss.

Observation:

• A 34-year-old male presented with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteremia and COVID-19 pneumonia.
• The patient was treated with corticosteroids as part of his management for severe COVID-19.
• He subsequently developed symptoms consistent with endogenous endophthalmitis.

Findings:

• The patient's clinical presentation and history were consistent with endogenous endophthalmitis.
• MRSA bacteremia in the context of COVID-19 and corticosteroid use was identified as a significant risk factor.
• Ocular inflammation and infection were confirmed, leading to the diagnosis.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering endogenous endophthalmitis in immunocompromised patients with systemic infections.
• Corticosteroid use in critically ill patients may increase the risk of opportunistic infections like endophthalmitis.
• Ophthalmologists and infectious disease specialists should be vigilant for this rare but sight-threatening condition.