Fungal endophthalmitis

Abstract

Fungal endophthalmitis (FE) is infrequent but results in poor visual outcomes. It can be exogenous or endogenous depending upon the mode of infection. The common causes for endogenous FE, post-traumatic FE and FE secondary to keratitis are Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger and Fusarium solani, respectively. Clinical features depend on the virulence of the organism and the mode of infection. Broad-spectrum systemic antifungal therapy with or without intravitreal antifungal drugs is recommended. The prognosis depends upon the virulence of the organism, extent of intraocular involvement and the timing of interventions. Prompt therapy following early diagnosis helps to reduce significant visual loss. This review evaluates the current literature on FE and focuses on antifungal agents and discusses species-specific management and outcomes of FE.