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Published on: February 6, 2021
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RAHNELLA AQUATILIS ENDOPHTHALMITIS AFTER INTRAVITREAL INJECTION IN AN IMMUNOCOMPETENT PATIENT
Parker J Williams1,2, Gilbert Xue1,2, Bing X Ross1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Kresge Eye Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan.
Retinal Cases & Brief Reports
|March 4, 2024
Summary
A rare case of Rahnella aquatilis endophthalmitis occurred after an intravitreal injection for diabetic macular edema. Prompt treatment led to a favorable visual outcome, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Intravitreal injections are common treatments for diabetic macular edema.
- Endophthalmitis is a serious intraocular infection that can lead to vision loss.
- Rahnella aquatilis is a gram-negative bacterium rarely implicated in endophthalmitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a novel case of exogenous Rahnella aquatilis endophthalmitis following an intravitreal injection.
- To describe the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of this rare infection.
- To emphasize the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment for favorable outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 74-year-old male patient.
- Diagnosis confirmed by microbiological cultures and mass spectrometry.
- Treatment included empirical and targeted intravitreal antibiotics, topical/oral antibiotics, and vitrectomy.
Main Results:
- The patient developed Rahnella aquatilis endophthalmitis 5 days post-intravitreal injection.
- Despite retinal hemorrhages and macular holes, the patient achieved a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/80 at 1 year.
- Favorable anatomical and functional outcomes were observed.
Conclusions:
- Exogenous Rahnella aquatilis endophthalmitis can occur after intravitreal injections.
- Prompt diagnosis and comprehensive treatment are crucial for managing this condition.
- Early intervention can lead to better visual outcomes compared to infections with other gram-negative bacteria.
