Delayed-onset Candida parapsilosis cornea tunnel infection and endophthalmitis after cataract surgery: histopathology and clinical course

Session Details

Session Title: Cataract Surgery Complications

Session Date/Time: Monday 16/09/2019 | 16:30-18:00

Paper Time: 17:48

Venue: Free Paper Forum: Podium 2

First Author: : S.Palioura GREECE

Co Author(s): :    N. Relhan   E. Leung   V. Chang   S. Yoo   S. Dubovy   H. Flynn Jr.              

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To describe a patient with late post-operative endophthalmitis and clear cornea tunnel infection caused by Candida parapsilosis that was masquerading as chronic anterior uveitis.

Setting:

Bascom Palmer Eye Institute

Methods:

A 62-year old woman with history of uncomplicated cataract surgery 7 months prior and chronic postoperative anterior uveitis, presented with an endothelial plaque, hypopyon, and infiltrates in the capsular bag and within the clear corneal tunnel. Anterior chamber cultures identified C. parapsilosis and pathology of the endothelial plaque showed fungus. Anterior chamber washout, scraping of the endothelial plaque, serial intracameral and intravitreal injections with amphotericin B (10 mcg) failed to control the infection.

Results:

Pars plana vitrectomy, removal of the intraocular lens and capsular bag, a corneal patch graft, and administration of intravitreal antifungal agents were performed. Two years later the patient remains free of recurrence and her best-corrected vision is 20/25 with a rigid gas permeable contact lens.

Conclusions:

Persistent intraocular and intracorneal inflammation after cataract surgery should raise suspicion of endophthalmitis caused by fungi non-responsive to topical and intravitreal antibiotics. Surgical intervention and removal of the nidus of infection, which is often the intraocular lens and capsular bag, may be necessary for a successful outcome.

Financial Disclosure:

None