Endophthalmitis

Early recognition and prompt management are important in reducing visual loss from infectious endophthalmitis. Increased awareness of the predisposing factors for postoperative endophthalmitis have led to more widespread use of preventive measures during anterior segment surgery. The use of less toxic intraocular antibiotics may reduce retinal damage and routine administration of intravitreal corticosteroids will reduce the tissue destruction produced by the intraocular inflammatory response. The use of vitrectomy in endophthalmitis management is being studied in a randomized, prospective study. Newer, less toxic, systemic antifungal medications which can be used alone or in conjunction with local ocular therapy for fungal endophthalmitis are available. Current diagnostic and management approaches are reviewed.