CIBA Vision Ophthalmics - Digital Grand Rounds


Digital Grand Rounds Program - Answer/Discussion

Endogenous Candida (fungal) Endophthalmitis was the diagnosis. Quite unusual for this patient in that this is usually seen in patients who are immunocompromised. Typically seen in AIDS, chronic steriod dependency, cancer, or long term antibiotic use. Oh yeah... IV drug users can get this, as well as patients with long-term indwelling catheters.

Common symptons of Candida endophthalmitis include poor vision, floaters, and pain. Bilaterality is not uncommon, even though it was not seen in this case.

Retinal hemorrhages, focal abcesses, and even retinal detachment can ensue once this condition gets rolling. If you suspect that you may have a patient with Candida, you should work the patient up for CMV, toxo, in addition to Candida itself. Also inquire about catheterization, steroid use, etc.

Treatment includes Fluconazole, with Amphotericin B being brought in for resistant cases. Treatment of any anterior uveitis is also appropriate. Obviously, referral to an infectious disease specialist is advised rather than trying to treat the systemic infection yourself.

See you next time!

Return to Case Presentation


Copyright 1996 / Optometric Computing