Endophthalmitis due to Propionibacterium acnes sequestered between IOL optic and posterior capsule

Abstract

A 68-year-old woman had delayed onset, persistent uveitis following routine extracapsular cataract extraction with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation. The patient initially responded to topical steroids, but developed a whitish capsular plaque through to represent possible Propionibacterium acnes endophthalmitis. A vitrectomy and capsular biopsy yielded cultures positive for P. acnes only after nine days. The intraocular lens was left in place. Light and electron microscopy revealed bacteria sequestered within the capsular bag.