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Endophthalmitis caused by Serratia marcescens
S M Cohen1, H W Flynn, D Miller
1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, FL, USA.
Ophthalmic Surgery and Lasers
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Serratia marcescens endophthalmitis, an infection following eye surgery, often persists despite antibiotic treatment. This condition typically leads to a poor visual prognosis, with many eyes requiring removal.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Serratia marcescens is a bacterium that can cause severe intraocular infections.
- Endophthalmitis, an inflammation of the eye's interior, can lead to vision loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the clinical presentation and treatment results for ten patients with Serratia marcescens endophthalmitis.
- To evaluate the outcomes of S. marcescens endophthalmitis following ocular surgery.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of medical records and microbiology laboratory data from 1980 to 1993.
- Identification of ten patients with culture-proven S. marcescens endophthalmitis.
- Clinical examination and reevaluation of patients when feasible.
Main Results:
- All ten cases of S. marcescens endophthalmitis occurred postoperatively.
- Intraocular antibiotics were administered to eight eyes; two required primary enucleation/evisceration.
- Despite appropriate antibiotic therapy, five cases showed persistent infection.
- Final visual acuity was 20/400 or better in 40% of eyes, with 40% undergoing enucleation/evisceration.
Conclusions:
- Serratia marcescens can cause persistent endophthalmitis resistant to standard antibiotic regimens.
- The visual prognosis for patients with S. marcescens endophthalmitis is generally poor.
- Prompt diagnosis and aggressive management are crucial for potentially preserving vision.