Endogenous endophthalmitis: A case of a presumed mixed intraocular opportunistic infection by a fungal species and cytomegalovirus

Abstract

Endogenous endophthalmitis is a serious sight-threatening disease. Common causes include immunocompromised state and intravenous drug use, permitting opportunistic pathogens to reach the eye through the blood stream. We reported a rare case of a presumed simultaneous opportunistic intraocular fungal and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. Case presentation: A 67-year-old male patient with a recent history of hospitalization due to pneumonia, presented to our department with bilateral loss of vision. Ocular examination revealed low visual acuity, signs of vitritis with chorioretinal infiltrations and cotton ball colony-like lesions, bilaterally. A bilateral endogenous fungal endophthalmitis was suspected and topical and systemic antifungal treatment was initiated. Nevertheless, vitreous and blood cultures were negative for fungi and other bacteria, while serological examinations revealed primary infection with CMV. Following vitrectomy, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of vitreous washings confirmed the intraocular infection with CMV. Treatment was modified, including intravenous administration of Gancyclovir. In the following days, the patient's clinical signs and visual acuity improved remarkably. Conclusions: A case of a presumed mixed fungal and CMV intraocular infection was presented. High level of suspicion with prompt diagnosis and aggressive combination treatment led to a favorable result.