Aim: We report a rare case of postoperative endophthalmitis caused by Escherichia coli.
Case description: The diagnosis of postoperative endophthalmitis in our patient was established based on the clinical signs of hypopyon along with vitritis. The patient underwent pars plana vitrectomy, anterior chamber washout, intraocular lens removal, and intravitreal antibiotics (amikacin and vancomycin) injection. The culture of both the vitreous sample and the intraocular lens, revealed a heavy growth of Escherichia coli.
Conclusion: Escherichia coli is an unusual microorganism to cause postoperative endophthalmitis. A major breach in the sterilization may explain this infection. Proper sterilization and prophylactic measures are crucial to avoid this disastrous complication.
Keywords: Escherichia coli; endogenous; endophthalmitis; exogenous.
Endophthalmitis is a rare catastrophic sight threatening complication after cataract surgery. It is commonly caused by Gram–positive bacteria. In this rare case report, we present a case of postoperative cataract surgery caused by Escherichia coli; a Gram-negative bacteria. Proper prophylactic measures in the operation rooms along with proper prophylactic antibiotics may aid in avoiding such complications by such rare microorganism.
© 2023 Rami A. Al-Dwairi, Abdelwahab Aleshawi, Seren Al Beiruti, Zaki Shannak, Wafa Al Shorman, Ahmed Al Sharie.