Tuberculous Endophthalmitis With Phthisis Bulbi: A Diagnostic Delay Case Report

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Endophthalmitis is a severe intraocular inflammation.
• Tuberculous endophthalmitis is a rare but serious cause, particularly in tuberculosis-endemic regions.
• Unexplained endophthalmitis necessitates a broad differential diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of considering tuberculous endophthalmitis in unexplained cases.
• To outline crucial management strategies for tuberculous endophthalmitis.
• To emphasize the need for early intervention to preserve vision.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and case series analysis (implied).
• Emphasis on clinical presentation and diagnostic considerations.
• Discussion of therapeutic interventions including systemic evaluation, surgical, and medical treatments.

Main Results:

• Tuberculous endophthalmitis presents a diagnostic challenge in endemic zones.
• Early systemic evaluation is vital for identifying tuberculosis.
• Pars plana vitrectomy and corticosteroids show potential benefits in management.

Conclusions:

• Tuberculous endophthalmitis must be a priority in the differential diagnosis of endophthalmitis in TB-endemic areas.
• Timely intervention, including systemic workup, vitrectomy, and corticosteroids, is critical.
• Preventing phthisis bulbi (irreversible eye shrinkage) is the primary goal, despite limited evidence for some treatments.