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MYCOBACTERIUM ABSCESSUS SCLERAL BUCKLE INFECTION
Sophie Cai1,2, Ailin Song1, Durga S Borkar1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; and.
Retinal Cases & Brief Reports
|March 28, 2022
Summary
A rare Mycobacterium abscessus infection of a scleral buckle was successfully managed. This case highlights the emerging role of Mycobacterium in buckle infections and effective treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Scleral buckle surgery is a common procedure for retinal detachment repair.
- Infections following scleral buckle placement can lead to significant morbidity.
- Mycobacterium species are increasingly recognized as potential pathogens in ocular infections.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old woman presented with symptoms of a scleral buckle infection, including eye pain, redness, and purulent discharge.
- Examination revealed scleral buckle exposure, corneal edema, and anterior chamber inflammation.
- Intraoperative findings included scleral thinning beneath the buckle, managed with a graft.
Findings:
- Cultures identified Mycobacterium abscessus, panresistant to most antibiotics except amikacin.
- The patient was treated with topical amikacin and a steroid taper for persistent uveitis.
- Successful resolution of infection and inflammation was achieved with the prescribed treatment.
Implications:
- Mycobacterium abscessus should be considered in the differential diagnosis of scleral buckle infections.
- Prompt surgical intervention (buckle removal) and targeted antibiotic therapy are crucial for management.
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing and treating rare microbial causes of post-surgical ocular infections.
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