Endophthalmitis (retinal infection) is severe inflammation within the eye caused by an infection. An external object penetrating the eye or specific eye surgeries can potentially cause this eye disease.
Endophthalmitis is extremely rare and must be treated immediately if it develops.
Following an eye surgery or trauma, symptoms of endophthalmitis manifest quickly after infection. They normally appear within one to two days, but can potentially appear up to six days later.
Symptoms include:
Possible symptoms can appear up to six weeks after surgery. These symptoms are usually less severe and include the following:
If you suffer from any of these symptoms, visit an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. The sooner endophthalmitis is treated, the lower the risk for ongoing and significant vision problems.
There are two primary categories of endophthalmitis:
Exogenous endophthalmitis is the most common type of endophthalmitis caused by an infection that originates from the outside of the body entering the eyes. Eye injuries and certain eye surgeries might be the cause of this condition.
Risk factors for exogenous endophthalmitis caused by surgery:
Risk factors for exogenous endophthalmitis caused by eye injuries are:
Endogenous endophthalmitis is a form of endophthalmitis caused by an infection originating from another part of the body affecting the eye. While uncommon, this can happen if a patient has an untreated infection in their urinary tract or blood.
Endogenous endophthalmitis is a form of endophthalmitis caused by an infection originating from another part of the body affecting the eye. While uncommon, this can happen if a patient has an untreated infection in their urinary tract or blood.
Several tests will be conducted by an eye doctor to get a diagnosis. This includes an ultrasound which checks for foreign objects in your eye. A vitreous tap test may be performed if the doctor suspects an infection. If an infection is confirmed, antibiotic or antifungal medication is injected directly into the eye using a tiny needle. Corticosteroids may be administered to alleviate inflammation or swelling caused by the infection.
Follow your doctor’s recommendations on eye care to reduce the risk of complications after endophthalmitis. Be sure to know when and how to apply prescribed eye drops or eye ointments. Do not miss any follow-up appointments with your eye doctor.
Endophthalmitis can be prevented by:
In the event a foreign object is embedded in the eye, seek medical assistance immediately. Do not attempt to remove the object on your own to avoid further damage to their eye.
Our highly skilled team of ophthalmologists at Eyecentric, based in Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre (BTMC), delivers outstanding clinical treatments and medical diagnostics.
