[Endogenous Candida endophthalmitis: diagnostics and treatment options based on case studies]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Mycology

Context:

• Endogenous Candida endophthalmitis is a rare but severe ocular infection.
• It poses a significant threat to vision and can be life-threatening due to systemic candidemia.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patient outcomes.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the treatment outcomes of endogenous Candida endophthalmitis.
• To compare current treatment strategies with existing literature.
• To propose standardized treatment guidelines for ophthalmologists in Germany.

Summary:

• A retrospective study of 8 patients (14 eyes) with endogenous Candida endophthalmitis treated between 2017-2022.
• All patients had underlying immunocompromising conditions and underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with intravitreal voriconazole.
• Visual acuity improved post-treatment, with no major complications, though 2 patients died from underlying diseases.

Impact:

• The study provides insights into the effectiveness of PPV and intravitreal voriconazole for endogenous Candida endophthalmitis.
• It underscores the need for standardized treatment protocols in Germany.
• Findings contribute to managing this critical ophthalmic emergency.