Candida endophthalmitis in drug abuse. case report
Klein, A.; Haller-Schober, E.M.; Faulborn, J.
Der Ophthalmologe Zeitschrift der Deutschen Ophthalmologischen Gesellschaft 97(9): 619-622
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0941-293X PMID: 11147335 Document Number: 523656
Endogenous fungal endophthalmitis is mostly seen as opportunistic infection, particularly in immunocompromised patients and under special risk factors. The therapeutical approach and the value of vitrectomy in diagnosis and therapy are discussed. A 42-years-old intravenous heroin addicted male patient with unilateral Candida albicans endophthalmitis, determined by cultivation is presented. The visual acuity at initial was 20/25 but decreased to hand-movements within 14 days despite systemic therapy. Treatment with systemic Fluconazole was extended and vitrectomy performed. The infection resolved but left a scar in the macula. The patient recovered a visual acuity of 20/80. Candida albicans endophthalmitis is a dreaded situation in ophthalmology. It has poor visual prognosis if left untreated. Therefore immediate diagnosis and aggressive therapy, if necessary vitrectomy are required.