Abstract
Purpose: :
The purpose of this study is to identify the changes in clinical features, prognostic factors, initial treatment options, and causative organisms for endogenous endophthalmitis in Korea from 1996 through 2010.
Methods: :
We conducted a retrospective chart review of 80 patients (97eyes) admittedwith endogenous endophthalmitis from January 1996 to October 2010. The total time of the chart review was divided into three periods, i.e. 1996-1999, 2000-2005, and 2006-2010. Variables related to endophthalmitis were evaluated according to the time period and included patient age, past medical history, primary infection focus, systemic conditions, initial and final visual acuity, causative organisms, and initial treatment options.
Results: :
Endophthalmitis was identified in 80 patients (97 eyes). The mean follow-up period was 28.1 months. Decreased visual acuity was the most common symptoms. Diabetes (42.5%) and liver cirrhosis (20%) were common systemic problems in these patients. Liver abscess (25%) was the most common infection focus of the endophthalmitis. K. pneumonia (43.8%) was still common as a causative agent, although more recently, G (+) cocci were increasing frequent causative agents. The use vitrectomy as an initial treatment increased during the most recent five years. Good initial visual acuity over counting finger (p <0.001), early vitrectomy in early diagnosed patients when used as the initial treatment (p=0.033), and G(+) cocci as a causative agent were all factors significantly related to a successful visual outcome.
Conclusions: :
Although the prognosis of endogenous endophthalmitis is generally poor, some eyes can have relatively good visual outcomes if treated appropriately and early enough. To improve the visual outcomes in patients with endophthalmitis, both internists and ophthalmologists should be sure to detect and treat these patients early enough and appropriately.
Keywords: endophthalmitis