Retrospective Analysis of Paediatric Post-traumatic Endophthalmitis in a Semi-urban Population in South India Over 5 Years

Background: Paediatric post-traumatic endophthalmitis (PPTE) is a dreaded complication of open globe injuries in adults and children alike. In this study, we aim to describe the demographic and clinical features associated with PPTE. Materials and Methods: This is a single-centre retrospective review of medical records of children with PPTE over a 5-year period in a semi-urban population. Results: Among 28 cases of open globe injury (OGI), 17 eyes with PPTE were identified. Age at presentation ranged from 1 to 18 years (mean = 7.18 years). Broomstick was the most common mode of injury ( n = 6). Cases with presentation within 1 day ( P = 0.073) showed a non-significant trend towards better final outcomes. Most cases with poorer outcome were culture-negative ( n = 8, 80%). Younger age (1–4 years) showed a trend towards poorer outcome ( P = 0.064). On univariate analysis, older age group (>8 years; odd’s ratio [OR] = 0.05, P = 0.056) and traumatic cataract (OR = 0.07, P = 0.087) were less likely to be associated with final best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) <6/36. Conclusions: PPTE is a vision-threatening and life-changing event. Immediate attention and aggressive intervention are necessary to prevent prolonged recovery and rehabilitation following OGI in children.