ENDOPHTHALMITIS/INTRAOCULAR INFECTION
Endophthalmitis is the term used to describe severe
inflammation inside the eye caused by an infection. It is very rare, but if it occurs, it requires urgent medical emergency. It is caused by either an infection that goes into the eyes or an infection that spreads from another part of the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms occur very quickly after infection. They will
typically occur within one to two days, or sometimes up to six days after surgery or trauma to the eye.
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Eye pain that becomes worse after surgery or injury to the eye
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Decreased or loss of vision
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Red eyes
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Pus from the eye
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Swollen eyelids
Symptoms may also occur later, such as six weeks after
surgery. These tend to be milder.
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Blurred vision
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Mild eye pain
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Trouble looking at bright lights
“This image was originally published in the Retina Image Bank® website.
Author and Photographer: Malika Goyal, MD. Post Injection Fungal Endophthalmitis.
Retina Image Bank. 2016; 26273. © the American Society of Retina Specialists."
If you notice any of these symptoms, please attend the Annan Retina Eye Center right away. The sooner endophthalmitis is treated, the less likely it is to cause continued and serious vision problems.
Diagnosis
To investigate symptoms of endophthalmitis your eye will need to be examined and your vision tested. An ultrasound maybe required to see if there are any foreign objects in the eyeball.
If an infection is suspected, Dr El Annan may perform a test called a vitreous tap. This involves using a tiny needle to take some fluid out of your eyeball. The fluid is then tested to ascertain the best way to treat the infection.
Treatments
It’s incredibly important to get an antibiotic into the eye as soon as possible. Typically, antibiotics are placed right into the eye with a tiny needle. A corticosteroid may be added in some cases to reduce inflammation.
If there’s a foreign body in the eye, it will need removing as quickly as possible. Never try to remove an object from your eye by yourself instead attend the Annan Retina Eye Center immediately.
To learn more about treatment options relating to Endophthalmitis please schedule a visit with Dr El Annan at the Annan Retina Eye Center. Please call 346-22A-NNAN to speak to a member of staff who will be more than happy to help you.
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