Microbiology and Visual Outcome of Bleb-associated Endophthalmitis

Abstract

Purpose: To identify the microbiological spectrum and visual outcome of bleb-associated endophthalmitis.

Methods: The medical records of patients treated for bleb-associated endophthalmitis were reviewed.

Results: Seventy-five patients were identified. Vitreous cultures were positive in 48 (64%) patients. The most common isolates were Streptococcus species in 24 (50%) eyes, gram-negative bacteria in 10 (20.8%) eyes, and Staphylococcus epidermidis in 7 (14.6%) eyes. Good visual outcome was achieved in 33 (44%) patients. On univariate analysis, shorter interval from onset of symptoms and treatment (p = .005), better initial visual acuity (p = .004), clear cornea at presentation (p = .048), isolation of less virulent organisms (p < .001), and absence of diabetes mellitus (p = .048) were significant positive predictors for good visual outcome.

Conclusions: Bleb-associated endophthalmitis is associated with severe visual impairment. Clinical features associated with better visual outcome include early presentation, better presenting visual acuity, clear cornea at presentation, culture of a less virulent organism, and absence of diabetes mellitus.

KEYWORDS::

• bleb
• endophthalmitis
• glaucoma
• streptococcus species
• trabeculectomy

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors thank Connie B. Unisa-Marfil for secretarial work. This study was supported in part by a Medical Research Chair funded by Nasser Al-Rasheed (AMA).

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.