Nontuberculous mycobacterial ocular and adnexal infections

Multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus infection in an anophthalmic socket treated with bedaquiline on a compassionate use basis: A case report

Purpose

To explore the management of a rare ophthalmic infection caused by a multi-resistant strain of Mycobacterium abscessus in the anophthalmic cavity of a patient with a history of multiple eye surgeries.

Observations

A 60-year-old woman with a history of multiple ocular complications, culminating in the enucleation of the eye and subsequent dermograft implant, developed a resistant infection in the anophthalmic cavity. The infection persisted despite various local interventions and broad-spectrum systemic antibiotic treatments. Resolution of the infection was only achieved after precise diagnosis and the implementation of intensive treatment, which included a specific combination of antibiotics and appropriate surgical debridement of the anophthalmic cavity.

Conclusions and importance

This case highlights the complexity in managing ophthalmic infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria. It underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary and personalized treatment approach, as well as the need to develop specific guidelines for ophthalmic infections caused by rapidly growing mycobacteria.

Impact of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and lockdown measures on microbial keratitis in Taiwan

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate how the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and associated lockdown measures influenced microbial keratitis in Taiwan by comparing demographic data, predisposing factors, pathogen profiles, and treatment outcomes in 2019 and 2020.

METHODS

Data from patients diagnosed with microbial keratitis at National Chung Kung University Hospital between January 2019 and December 2020 were examined, focusing on patient demographics, predisposing factors, isolated pathogens, antibiotic usage, and clinical progress.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found in patient sex, laterality, or average age between the two years. Predisposing factors, such as contact lens use and chronic ocular/systemic disorders, remained unchanged. While fungal isolates slightly increased during the lockdown, bacterial isolates remained consistent. Medical treatment effectiveness, treatment strategies, and antibiotic susceptibility for common bacteria showed no significant alterations.

CONCLUSION

Despite the challenges posed by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and lockdown measures, this study revealed minimal changes in microbial keratitis trends in Taiwan. This highlights the importance of maintaining access to medical care during crises and offers insights into potential treatment strategies for patients facing difficulties in receiving timely care. Further research should investigate the pandemic's impact on healthcare access and patient outcomes in various populations and regions.

Periocular non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection after autologous fat transfer with micro-needling and fractional radiofrequency skin resurfacing

A 59-year-old woman with prior bilateral lower eyelid autologous fat transfer, subdermal micro-needling and fractional radiofrequency skin resurfacing presented with delayed left-sided preseptal cellulitis with small multinodular abscesses unresponsive to oral outpatient antibiotic regimens and inpatient intravenous antibiotics. Wound culture revealed Mycobacterium chelonae infection treated successfully with a 4-month regimen of clarithromycin and tedizolid without recurrence. This case highlights (1) the need for vigilance and a broad differential in delayed post-operative wound infections including non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections, (2) resolution of infection without recurrence on clarithromycin and novel tedizolid oral antibiotic therapy, and (3) that caution should be exercised when performing combination autologous fat transfers with subdermal micro-needling procedures as the breakdown in skin integrity may potentiate infection.

Ocular infections associated with atypical mycobacteria: A review

Atypical mycobacteria or non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are a group of acid-fast bacteria that are pathogenic to different parts of the eye. The organisms can cause a spectrum of ocular infections including keratitis, scleritis, uveitis, endophthalmitis and orbital cellulitis. Trauma, whether surgical or nonsurgical, has the highest correlation with development of this infection. Common surgeries after which these infections have been reported include laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and scleral buckle surgery. The organism is noted to form biofilms with sequestration of the microbe at different inaccessible locations leading to high virulence. Collection of infective ocular material (corneal scraping/necrotic scleral tissue/abscess material/vitreous aspirate, etc.) and laboratory identification of the organism through microbiologic testing are vital for confirming presence of the infection and initiating treatment. In cluster infections, tracing the source of infection in the hospital setting via testing of different in-house samples is equally important to prevent further occurrences. Although the incidence of these infections is low, their presence can cause prolonged disease that may often be resistant to medical therapy alone. In this review, we describe the various types of NTM-ocular infections, their clinical presentation, laboratory diagnosis, management, and outcomes.

Nontuberculous mycobacterial abscess of lacrimal sac and eyelid debridement: Case report

Key Clinical Message

It is important to stain acid-fact bacilli on the smear of abscess puncture in addition to Gram stain to detect nontuberculous and tuberculous mycobacteria in the early phase since both can cause rare and challenging extrapulmonary manifestations.

Abstract

A 56-year-old otherwise healthy woman developed abscess from dacryocystitis in the right lower eyelid. The smear of puncture fluid showed acid-fast bacilli and Mycobacterium abscessus was identified after a month. The early start of clarithromycin/ethambutol was switched to clarithromycin/levofloxacin. Debridement specimen after 7-month treatment showed granulomatous tissue with no bacilli.

Atypical microbial keratitis

Atypical microbial keratitis refers to corneal infections caused by micro-organisms not commonly encountered in clinical practice. Unlike infections caused by common bacteria, cases of atypical microbial keratitis are often associated with worse clinical outcomes and visual prognosis. This is due to the challenges in the identification of causative organisms with standard diagnostic techniques, resulting in delays in the initiation of appropriate therapies. Furthermore, due to the comparatively lower incidence of atypical microbial keratitis, there is limited literature on effective management strategies for some of these difficult to manage corneal infections. This review highlights the current management and available evidence of atypical microbial keratitis, focusing on atypical mycobacteria keratitis, nocardia keratitis, achromobacter keratitis, and pythium keratitis. It will also describe the management of two uncommonly encountered conditions, infectious crystalline keratopathy and post-refractive infectious keratitis. This review can be used as a guide for clinicians managing patients with such challenging corneal infections.

Ocular Mycobacterium haemophilum infection originating in the cornea: a case report

BACKGROUND

Mycobacterium haemophilum is a slow-growing non-chromogenic nontuberculous Mycobacterium species that can cause skin infection or arthritis in an immunocompromised population or in children. Primary infection of the healthy adult cornea is rare. The special requirements for culture make this pathogen difficult to diagnose. The study aims to report the clinical manifestation and treatment process of corneal infection and notify the awareness of M. Haemophilus keratitis among clinicians. This is the first case report of primary M. haemophilum infection in the cornea of healthy adults reported in the literature.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 53-year-old healthy goldminer presented with left eye redness and a history of vision loss for four months. The patient was misdiagnosed with herpes simplex keratitis until M. haemophilum was detected using high-throughput sequencing. Penetrating keratoplasty was performed, and a large number of mycobacteria were detected by Ziehl-Neelsen staining of the infected tissue. Three months later, the patient developed conjunctival and eyelid skin infections that manifested as caseous necrosis of the conjunctiva and skin nodules. After excision and debridement of the conjunctival lesions and systemic antituberculosis drug treatment for 10 months, the patient was cured.

CONCLUSION

M. haemophilum could cause primary corneal infection in healthy adults, which is an infrequent or rare infection. Owing to the need for special bacterial culture conditions, conventional culture methods do not provide positive results. High-throughput sequencing can rapidly identify the presence of bacteria, which aids in early diagnosis and timely treatment. Prompt surgical intervention is an effective treatment option for severe keratitis. Long-term systemic antimicrobial therapy is crucial.

Multifocal Serpiginoid Choroiditis Due to Mycobacterium Mageritense following Laparoscopic Hysterectomy in an Immunocompetent Host

PURPOSE

To report nontubercular choroiditis, caused by Mycobacterium mageritense isolated using MALDI-TOF MS, following laparoscopic hysterectomy in an immunocompetent patient.

CASE REPORT

A 42-year-old female presented with gradual, painless diminution of vision in the right eye for six weeks. She had undergone laparoscopic hysterectomy two months back. BCVA was 2/60 OD. Clinical presentation and imaging all pointed to a diagnosis of serpiginous-like choroiditis. Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) had led to isolation of Mycobacterium mageritense. Patient was treated with systemic antibiotics. At 3 months follow up, BCVA improved to 6/60; fundus showed healed choroiditis and chorioretinal thinning.

CONCLUSION

Atypical mycobacterial infections associated with laparoscopic surgeries can rarely lead to debilitating systemic bacteremia resulting in profound visual impairment. The importance of timely diagnosis using specific and sophisticated methods such as MALDI-TOF MS as well as maintaining aseptic precautions perioperatively during major surgeries cannot be overemphasized.

Healthcare-Associated nontuberculous mycobacterial endocarditis following coronary artery angiography

Infective endocarditis in a patient with structural heart disease following coronary artery angiography is a rare complication. We report a rare case of Mycobacterium chelonae infective endocarditis following coronary artery angiography in a young male with congenital heart disease. This case illustrates the diagnostic as well as therapeutic challenges we faced when managing this rare infectious entity.

Periocular Infection of Mycobacterium avium Complex in a Patient with Interferon-γ Autoantibodies: A Case Report

The neutralizing anti-interferon-γ autoantibody (nAIGA)-associated immunodeficiency is an emerging entity frequently associated with the nontuberculosis mycobacterium (NTM) infection and other opportunistic infections. We present a female patient with a mysterious periocular Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection, accompanied by sequential opportunistic infections including Salmollelosis and herpes zoster infection. Her condition stabilized after long-term antimycobacterial treatment. Nevertheless, neutralizing anti-interferon-γ autoantibody was found in her serum, which was compatible with the scenario of adult-onset immunodeficiency.

Paradox of complex diversity: Challenges in the diagnosis and management of bacterial keratitis

Bacterial keratitis continues to be one of the leading causes of corneal blindness in the developed as well as the developing world, despite swift progress since the dawn of the "anti-biotic era". Although, we are expeditiously developing our understanding about the different causative organisms and associated pathology leading to keratitis, extensive gaps in knowledge continue to dampen the efforts for early and accurate diagnosis, and management in these patients, resulting in poor clinical outcomes. The ability of the causative bacteria to subdue the therapeutic challenge stems from their large genome encoding complex regulatory networks, variety of unique virulence factors, and rapid secretion of tissue damaging proteases and toxins. In this review article, we have provided an overview of the established classical diagnostic techniques and therapeutics for keratitis caused by various bacteria. We have extensively reported our recent in-roads through novel tools for accurate diagnosis of mono- and poly-bacterial corneal infections. Furthermore, we outlined the recent progress by our group and others in understanding the sub-cellular genomic changes that lead to antibiotic resistance in these organisms. Finally, we discussed in detail, the novel therapies and drug delivery systems in development for the efficacious management of bacterial keratitis.

Infectious Scleritis: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management

ABSTRACT

Infectious scleritis (IS) is a rare and severe ocular disorder responsible for approximately 5%-15% of all scleritis cases. It is often associated with a poor prognosis due to its similar clinical presentation to autoimmune scleritis, resulting in a delayed diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, differentiating between infectious and noninfectious entities is critical. Several details extracted from the patient's history and clinical examination can raise suspicion for infection. The most common predisposing factor is previous ocular surgery, especially pterygium, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeries. Ocular trauma, poor contact lens hygiene, "eye-whitening" procedures, and subtenon triamcinolone injections have also been implicated. Clinical features of infection include the presence of scleral necrosis, hypopyon, unifocal or multifocal scleral abscesses, and mucopurulent discharge. Thorough diagnostic testing is essential before excluding infection as a possibility. Empiric broad-spectrum topical and systemic antibiotic therapy should be initiated while awaiting laboratory results and adjusted accordingly. Most IS cases require both aggressive medical and surgical treatment, and various studies have reported favorable outcomes with this combination. At this time, there is no consensus on the management of this severe ocular condition, and future studies are needed to establish clear treatment guidelines.

Post-keratoplasty Infectious Keratitis: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Management, and Outcomes

Post-keratoplasty infectious keratitis (PKIK) represents a unique clinical entity that often poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. It carries a high risk of serious complications such as graft rejection and failure, and less commonly endophthalmitis. Topical corticosteroids are often required to reduce the risk of graft rejection but their use in PKIK may act as a double-edged sword, particularly in fungal infection. The increased uptake in lamellar keratoplasty in the recent years has also led to complications such as graft-host interface infectious keratitis (IIK), which is particularly difficult to manage. The reported incidence of PKIK differs considerably across different countries, with a higher incidence observed in developing countries (9.2-11.9%) than developed countries (0.02-7.9%). Common risk factors for PKIK include the use of topical corticosteroids, suture-related problems, ocular surface diseases and previous corneal infection. PKIK after penetrating keratoplasty or (deep) anterior lamellar keratoplasty is most commonly caused by ocular surface commensals, particularly Gramme-positive bacteria, whereas PKIK after endothelial keratoplasty is usually caused by Candida spp. Empirical broad-spectrum antimicrobial treatment is the mainstay of treatment for both PKIK, though surgical interventions are required in medically refractory cases (during the acute phase) and those affected by visually significant scarring (during the late phase). In this paper, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview on PKIK, encompassing the epidemiology, risk factors, causes, management and outcomes, and to propose a treatment algorithm for systematically managing this challenging condition.

A Complication of Mycobacterium chelonae Infection Following Orbital Floor Fracture Repair

ABSTRACT

Mycobacterium chelonae is a rare, atypical nontuberculous bacterium that has been reported to be an underlying cause of persistent wound infections. Although there are several studies highlighting the role of M chelonae as the putative cause of other postoperative wound infections, to our knowledge there are no reports of infection following implant placement for repair of an orbital floor fracture. The authors present a unique case describing the management of a persistent postoperative infection in a young, immunocompetent patient with an orbital floor fracture repaired with a Stryker Medpor Titan implant. The patient was initially treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics with minimal clinical improvement. Following culture-proven M chelonae, a second surgical intervention was undertaken to remove the implant and later, a third intervention for scar revision. The patient has remained free of infection utilizing a long-term tailored 2-drug antibiotic regimen. This case emphasizes the need for recognition of M chelonae as a potential pathogen in certain clinical situations and the difficulty in eradicating M chelonae in the context of infected implantable devices. The comprehensive treatment protocol required to ensure adequate therapy is reviewed.

Ocular manifestations of disseminated Mycobacterium chimaera infection after cardiothoracic surgery

OBJECTIVE

To describe the ocular manifestations of disseminated Mycobacterium chimaera infection after cardiothoracic surgery.

DESIGN

Retrospective, observational case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with disseminated M. chimaera infection treated at the University of Alberta Hospital and Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

METHODS

Seven patients (14 eyes) with systemic M. chimaera infection after aortic graft and/or valvular surgeries were reviewed for ocular involvement. Cases were identified based on histopathologic analysis of cardiac tissue, repeat positive mycobacterial blood cultures, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Clinical ocular findings, fundus autofluorescence, fluorescein angiography, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and autopsy results are described.

RESULTS

The mean age of our patients was 63 years (range, 22-76 years). Aortic graft and/or valvular surgeries were performed between June 2015 and April 2016. The mean duration from surgery to diagnosis of infection was 27 months (range, 19-36 months). All patients exhibited white-yellowish choroidal lesions. Bilateral, multifocal choroiditis was observed in 6 patients (12 eyes), who died of disseminated M. chimaera infection despite aggressive, multiagent antimicrobial therapy. One patient had a solitary, white-yellow choroidal lesion in the left eye only. Choroidal lesions were hyperfluorescent on late-phase fluorescein angiography and corresponded to localized choroidal thickening and retinal elevation on SD-OCT.

CONCLUSIONS

M. chimaera infection after cardiothoracic surgery can cause life-threatening disease involving multiple organ systems. Ocular involvement is an important and possibly early clinical finding, with good correlation to systemic disease severity. Ophthalmological assessment and multimodal imaging may aid in early diagnosis and can be used to monitor disease progression.

Scleral Buckle Infection Caused by Mycobacterium chelonae: A Case Report

A 63-year-old female with a history of retinal detachment repair with scleral buckle from 28 years prior presented with exposure of the buckle in her right eye. After removing the buckle and anchoring sutures, the operation field was washed with 0.25% polyvinyl alcohol-iodine, vancomycin, and ceftazidime. Cultures revealed Mycobacterium chelonae. Systemic meropenem was discontinued on postoperative day 5. The retina remained attached, and there was no recurrence over a 1-year follow-up. We report a case of NTM buckle infection that responded well to thorough washings with polyvinyl alcohol-iodine and antibiotic solutions instead of using a prolonged course of systemic antibiotics.

Nontuberculous mycobacterial endophthalmitis: case series and review of literature

Background

To report three cases of nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) endophthalmitis following multiple ocular surgeries and to review previous literature in order to study the clinical profile, treatment modalities, and visual outcomes among patients with NTM endophthalmitis.

Methods

Clinical manifestation and management of patients with NTM endophthalmitis in the Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand were described. In addition, a review of previously reported cases and case series from MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL was performed. The clinical information and type of NTM from the previous studies and our cases were summarized.

Results

We reported three cases of NTM endophthalmitis caused by M. haemophilum, M. fortuitum and M. abscessus and a summarized review of 112 additional cases previously published. Of 115 patients, there were 101 exogenous endophthalmitis (87.8%) and 14 endogenous endophthalmitis (12.2%). The patients’ age ranged from 13 to 89 years with mean of 60.5 ± 17.7 years with no gender predominance. Exogenous endophthalmitis occurred in both healthy and immunocompromised hosts, mainly caused by cataract surgery (67.3%). In contrast, almost all endogenous endophthalmitis patients were immunocompromised. Among all patients, previous history of tuberculosis infection was identified in 4 cases (3.5%). Rapid growing NTMs were responsible for exogenous endophthalmitis, while endogenous endophthalmitis were commonly caused by slow growers. Treatment regimens consisted of macrolides, fluoroquinolones or aminoglycosides, which were continued for up to 12 months. Initial and final vision were generally worse than 6/60.

Conclusions

NTM endophthalmitis is a serious intraocular infection that leads to irreversible loss of vision. The presentation can mimic a chronic recurrent or persistent intraocular inflammation. History of multiple intraocular surgeries or immune-deficiency in patient with chronic panuveitis should raise the practioner’s suspicion of NTM endophthalmitis. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment are important to optimize visual outcome.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-020-05606-2.

Management of nontuberculous mycobacterial infections of the eye and orbit: A retrospective case series

Purpose

To provide an update on different management approaches for Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) infections of the eye and orbit.

Observations

A total of 9 eyes from 8 patients were found to meet study criteria. Of these 9 eyes, 6 eyes (66%) involved Mycobacterium abscessus, 2 (22%) involved M. chelonae, and 1 (11%) involved M. fortuitum. In 8 (88%) eyes, NTM infection was treated with a combination of antibiotics and removal of involved foreign body or tissue (e.g. scleral buckle, intraocular lens, orbital implant, or granuloma). One case was observed on topical therapy alone due to low suspicion for clinically significant infection. In 1 patient, a second culture-positive infection was found in the contralateral eye requiring treatment.

Conclusions and importance

Depending on the clinical presentation, optimal treatment of ocular and orbital NTM infections may require combination anti-mycobacterial antibiotics (topical and systemic), surgical removal of implanted material or tissue, or both.

Clinical and demographic study of non-tuberculous mycobacterial ocular infections in South India

PURPOSE

To describe demographics, risk factors, antibiotic susceptibility, management and outcomes of ocular infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM).

METHODS

A retrospective review of medical case records and microbiology records of patients with ocular infections that were culture positive for non-tuberculous Mycobacteria from January 2014 to December 2018 was done. Antibiotic susceptibility profile was done based on the CLSI guidelines. Laboratory diagnosis for the NTM Species was done by conventional microbiological methods. The species identification was done for stored isolated utilizing polymerase chain reaction targeting 16S rDNA and rpoB gene, followed by DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty patients with NTM ocular infections were identified during the study period. A majority of cases presented as 12 infectious keratitis (60%) and three suture-related corneal infiltrates (15%). Common risk factors were history of trauma in 9 (45%) patients and history of ocular surgery in 5 (25%) patients. Patients were treated with combination of amikacin and flouroquinolones/chloramphenicol (70%) and surgical interventions were performed in 25% cases. Only twelve isolates were stored and ten isolates were identified as the M. abscessus subsp. abscessus and two isolates as M. abscessus subsp. massiliense by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Majority of the NTM were sensitive to amikacin (75%) followed by moxifloxacin, ciprofloxacin, cephotaxime and tobramycin (35%).

CONCLUSION

High degree of clinical suspicion, multidrug antibiotic therapy and timely surgical intervention in patients with NTM infections, are advised for better clinical outcomes. Prior ocular trauma, prior ocular surgery and presence of biomaterials were the major predisposing factors. Earlier surgical intervention in cases where abscesses or biomaterials are involved, is necessary for rapid recovery.

Mycobacterium haemophilum scleritis: two case reports and review of literature

Background

Mycobacterium haemophilum is a rare and emerging nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). It normally causes localized or disseminated systemic diseases, particularly skin infections and arthritis in severely immunocompromised patients. There have been 5 cases of M. haemophilum ocular infections reported in the literature. Only 1 case presented with scleritis with keratitis. Here, we reported 2 cases of M. haemophilum scleritis. One of them was immunocompetent host and had keratitis with radial keratoneuritis as a presenting sign.

Case presentation

Case 1: A 52-year-old Thai female with rheumatoid arthritis presented with scleritis. Conjunctival scraping was carried out and the culture result was positive for M. haemophilum. Despite receiving systemic and topical antibiotics, her clinical symptoms and signs worsened. Surgical debridement was performed. After surgery, the lesion was significantly improved and finally turned to conjunctival scarring. Case 2: A 32-year old healthy Thai male without underlying disease presented with nodular scleritis and keratouveitis with multiple radial keratoneuritis. Surgical debridement of the scleral nodule was performed. Initial microbiological investigations were negative. Herpes ocular infections was suspected. Topical antibiotics, oral acyclovir, low-dose topical steroids and systemic steroids were started. The scleral inflammation subsided but later the keratitis relapsed, requiring corneal biopsy. Histopathology of the specimen revealed acid-fast bacteria and M. haemophilum was identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. The diagnosis of Mycobacterial keratitis was made. Although using the combination of systemic and topical antibiotics, his clinical status progressively deteriorated. Multiple therapeutic penetrating keratoplasties were required to eradicate the infection. No recurrence was found during the 1-year follow-up in both cases.

Conclusions

M. haemophilum can cause scleritis and keratitis, even in immunocompenent host. Radial keraoneuritis is first described in M. haemophilum keratitis. NTM keratitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with radial keratoneuritis. Increased awareness and early diagnosis using appropriate culture conditions and molecular techniques are important for the proper treatment of this infection. Prompt surgical intervention appears to be vital for successful management of M. haemophilum scleritis and keratitis.

Spontaneous Resolution of a Choroidal Mass: A Case Series

Choroidal masses can be of varying etiologies including tumors of benign, primary, and metastatic nature. Herein, we report on 3 cases of well-documented solitary choroidal masses associated with exudative retinal detachments of unclear etiology (despite extensive workup) that resolved spontaneously.

Scleritis: Differentiating infectious from non-infectious entities

Scleritis is a rare painful ocular disorder, associated with severe ocular pain and tissue destruction. Although a majority of these cases are immune mediated and at least half of these are associated with systemic immune-mediated diseases, a smaller minority are due to infections of the sclera. The two conditions closely mimic each other, and a thorough knowledge of the subtle differences is necessary in order to reach a timely diagnosis. Diagnostic delay can lead to a poor outcome both due to the destruction caused by the uncontrolled infection and also due to propagation of the infection with the use of corticosteroids which may have been started for presumed immune mediated scleritis. In this review, we present the clinical features, etiological agents, and the differentiating features between immune and infectious scleritis. We also present diagnostic and management guidelines for managing scleral infection.

Nontubercular Mycobacteria Associated Uveitis in HIV Positive Patients

PURPOSE

To report clinical features and outcomes of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) presenting as uveitis in HIV positive patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study of HIV positive patients who were diagnosed as uveitis due to NTM.

RESULTS

Six eyes of four HIV positive patients with NTM were studied. Average age at presentation was 35.5 years (range 30-38). With specific PCR primers, Mycobacterium avium was detected in three patients (75%) and Mycobacterium fortuitum in one patient (25%). Culture was positive in two cases. Two eyes (33.33%) each had endophthalmitis and necrotizing retinitis like picture, one eye (16.66%) each had chorioretinitis and frosted branch angitis like. Visual acuity improved in two eyes (33.33%), worsened in three eyes (50%), and remained unchanged in one eye (16.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

NTM infection is a unique entity in immunosuppressed with poor visual outcome. PCR forms a useful tool for rapid diagnosis and timely initiation of specific anti-tuberculosis therapy.

General Overview of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Opportunistic Pathogens: Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium abscessus

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are emerging human pathogens, causing a wide range of clinical diseases affecting individuals who are immunocompromised and who have underlying health conditions. NTM are ubiquitous in the environment, with certain species causing opportunistic infection in humans, including Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium abscessus. The incidence and prevalence of NTM infections are rising globally, especially in developed countries with declining incidence rates of M. tuberculosis infection. Mycobacterium avium, a slow-growing mycobacterium, is associated with Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections that can cause chronic pulmonary disease, disseminated disease, as well as lymphadenitis. M. abscessus infections are considered one of the most antibiotic-resistant mycobacteria and are associated with pulmonary disease, especially cystic fibrosis, as well as contaminated traumatic skin wounds, postsurgical soft tissue infections, and healthcare-associated infections (HAI). Clinical manifestations of diseases depend on the interaction of the host's immune response and the specific mycobacterial species. This review will give a general overview of the general characteristics, vulnerable populations most at risk, pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention for infections caused by Mycobacterium avium, in the context of MAC, and M. abscessus.

Complicated case of Mycobacterium abscessus conjunctivitis in Sjögren's syndrome

Purpose

To report a case of conjunctivitis due to Mycobacterium abscessus in the setting of keratoconjunctivitis sicca due to Sjögren's syndrome in the absence of other known risk factors such as surgery, trauma or immunosuppressive therapy.

Observations

A 61-year-old woman with a history of keratoconjunctivitis sicca secondary to Sjögren's syndrome presented with dryness, irritation, redness, and discharge in her left eye for 2 months. She was diagnosed with chronic conjunctivitis and began a regimen of moxifloxacin and an ocular ointment of dexamethasone, neomycin, and polymyxin with no improvement of symptoms. Concurrent cultures grew Mycobacterium abscessus and the patient began treatment with amikacin drops, oral clarithromycin and intravenous imipenem, followed by amikacin drops, oral clarithromycin, and oral clofazimine, but her course was complicated by a perforated corneal ulcer that required a corneal patch graft. The patient eventually recovered despite persistent colonization.

Conclusions/importance

We present a case of Mycobacterium abscessus conjunctivitis in a patient with keratoconjunctivitis sicca secondary to Sjögren's syndrome without previous history of surgery, trauma, or other known risk factors. Because of low suspicion and clinician awareness, ocular nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection may have a delayed diagnosis and treatment. Clinicians should consider NTM in the differential diagnosis in patients with autoimmune disease such as Sjögren's syndrome. Treatment may be lengthy, requiring topical and systemic antibiotics and is often complicated due to resistance.

MULTIMODAL IMAGING OF CHOROIDAL LESIONS IN DISSEMINATED MYCOBACTERIUM CHIMAERA INFECTION AFTER CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY

PURPOSE

To explore morphologic characteristics of choroidal lesions in patients with disseminated Mycobacterium chimaera infection subsequent to open-heart surgery.

METHODS

Nine patients (18 eyes) with systemic M. chimaera infection were reviewed. Activity of choroidal lesions were evaluated using biomicroscopy, fundus autofluorescence, enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography/indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography angiography. Relationships of choroidal findings to systemic disease activity were sought.

RESULTS

All 9 male patients, aged between 49 and 66 years, were diagnosed with endocarditis and/or aortic graft infection. Mean follow-up was 17.6 months. Four patients had only inactive lesions (mild disease). In all five patients (10 eyes) with progressive ocular disease, indocyanine green angiography was superior to other tests for revealing new lesions and active lesions correlated with hyporeflective choroidal areas on enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography. One eye with a large choroidal granuloma developed choroidal neovascularization. Optical coherence tomography angiography showed areas with reduced perfusion at the inner choroid. All 5 patients with progressive ocular disease had evidence of systemic disease activity within ±6 weeks' duration.

CONCLUSION

Choroidal manifestation of disseminated M. chimaera infection indicates systemic disease activity. Multimodal imaging is suitable to recognize progressive ocular disease. We propose ophthalmologic screening examinations for patients with M. chimaera infection.

Toward a chimeric vaccine against multiple isolates of Mycobacteroides - An integrative approach

AIM

Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infection such as endophthalmitis, dacryocystitis, and canaliculitis are pervasive across the globe and are currently managed by antibiotics. However, the recent cases of Mycobacteroides developing drug resistance reported along with the improper practice of medicine intrigued us to explore its genomic and proteomic canvas at a global scale and develop a chimeric vaccine against Mycobacteroides.

MAIN METHODS

We carried out a vivid genomic study on five recently sequenced strains of Mycobacteroides and explored their Pan-core genome/proteome in three different phases. The promiscuous antigenic proteins were identified via a subtractive proteomics approach that qualified for virulence causation, resistance and essentiality factors for this notorious bacterium. An integrated pipeline was developed for the identification of B-Cell, MHC (Major histocompatibility complex) class I and II epitopes.

KEY FINDINGS

Phase I identified the shreds of evidence of reductive evolution and propensity of the Pan-genome of Mycobacteroides getting closed soon. Phase II and Phase III produced 8 vaccine constructs. Our final vaccine construct, V6 qualified for all tests such as absence for allergenicity, presence of antigenicity, etc. V6 contains β-defensin as an adjuvant, linkers, Lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1) signal peptide, and PADRE (Pan HLA-DR epitopes) amino acid sequence. Besides, V6 also interacts with a maximum number of MHC molecules and the TLR4/MD2 (Toll-like receptor 4/Myeloid differentiation factor 2) complex confirmed by docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies.

SIGNIFICANCE

The knowledge harnessed from the current study can help improve the current treatment regimens or in an event of an outbreak and propel further related studies.

Infectious Keratitis Caused by Rare and Emerging Micro-Organisms

PURPOSE

To provide a comprehensive review of rare and emerging micro-organisms causing infectious keratitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A literature search was performed using PubMed Medline, Cochrane Library Database, EMBASE and Scopus (1960 onwards), using the terms: keratitis caused by rare pathogens; mycotic keratitis; fungal keratitis; bacterial keratitis; infectious keratitis; infective keratitis; atypical fungal keratitis; fungal keratitis caused by rare organisms; fungal keratitis caused by rare ocular pathogen; atypical bacterial keratitis; bacterial keratitis caused by rare organisms; bacterial keratitis caused by rare ocular pathogen. All relevant articles were included in this review.

RESULTS

A total of 1232 articles matched our search strategy of which 124 articles were included in this mini-review. The rare and emerging bacteria causing keratitis include atypical mycobacteria, Nocardia spp., Chrysebacterium spp., Delftia acidovorans, Kocuria spp., Enterococcus spp., Bartonella henslae, Achromobacter spp. and others. The rare and emerging fungi causing keratitis include Pythium spp., Alternaria spp., Acremonium spp., Cladosporium spp., Curvularia spp., Bipolaris spp., Microsporidia spp., Pseudallescheria spp., Colletotrichum spp., and others. The clinical presentation of these cases is variable. While a few organisms produce characteristic clinical features, rest present similar to bacterial or fungal keratitis with variable response to routine treatment. A strong degree of suspicion is therefore essential for its diagnosis. Special investigations like polymerase chain reaction, gene sequencing, mass spectroscopy and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay are required for accurate identification of these organisms. Culture-sensitivity is extremely useful as drug resistance to routinely used anti-microbial drugs is common. Prognosis is usually poor for keratitis with Pythium spp., Pseudallescheria spp., Arthrographis spp., Purpureocillium spp., Kociria spp. and Achromobacter spp.

CONCLUSION

Keratitis caused by rare and emerging micro-organisms must be suspected in cases where the infection runs an unusual course or shows a poor response to standard anti-microbial drugs. Early diagnosis and timely treatment hold the key for a good outcome.

Mycobacterium chimaera chorioretinitis as a biomarker of systemic disease activity following nosocomial acquisition during cardiopulmonary bypass

Objectives: To understand the role of ophthalmoscopic examination (dilated retina examination and widefield fundus photography) in the diagnosis and management of nosocomial acquisition of Mycobacterium chimaera following open heart surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass utilizing a heater-cooler unit, an entity that is associated with >50% mortality during the worldwide outbreak that has occurred since 2013.Methods: Case report with review of previous cases.Results: Signature Mycobacterium chimaera chorioretinal lesions can be used as a diagnostic sign and a biomarker for assessment of treatment efficacy.Conclusions: Ophthalmologic examination can play a key role in diagnosis and management of systemic Mycobacterium chimaera following cardiopulmonary bypass; such examinations may yield earlier diagnosis, diminishing mortality rates.

Choroidal granuloma caused by Mycobacterium Fortuitum

Background

To report a case of a chronic steroid user male patient who developed local abscesses caused by M. fortuitum and concomitant asymptomatic choroidal granuloma.

Case presentation

A 37-year-old african-american male with history of use of anabolic drugs and intramuscular mineral oil injections in the upper and lower limbs for 15 years for muscular hypertrophy. He developed intramuscular abscesses with systemic infection, sub-retinal lesions in both eyes and alterations in cerebrospinal fluid suggestive of mycobacteria. Considering these findings, empirical treatment for tuberculosis was started, without success. After several negative cultures of the material drained from the abscesses, finally one of the cultures isolated the agent Mycobacterium Fortuitum. Proper treatment for atypical mycobacteria was initiated with clinical and laboratory improvement. After 6 months the sub-retinal lesions regressed.

Conclusions

A typical choroidal granuloma caused by M. Fortuitum is a rare presentation of the infection and our report showed a good outcome with proper treatment.

Microbial Keratitis in Taiwan: A 20-Year Update

PURPOSE

To investigate the demographics, risk factors, microbiology, and resistance pattern at a tertiary hospital and to detect the shifting trend over 2 decades.

DESIGN

A retrospective observational case series.

METHODS

We reviewed all records of patients with microbial keratitis (MK) that were hospitalized in National Taiwan University Hospital between 2007 and 2016. Demographics, predisposing factors, pathogens, and clinical courses were compared to our previous study conducted from 1992 to 2001. Antibiotic susceptibility was compared with those conducted from 1994 to 2005.

RESULTS

The percentage of patients 60 years and older in the MK population was increasing (P = 2.1E-21). The proportion of trauma-related MK declined while MK related to chronic ocular or systemic disorders rose. The prevalence of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) showed a decreasing trend (P = .0032), whereas Microsporidia has been increasingly detected. The 2 most common bacterial isolates were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (35.2%) and Staphylococcus species (13.2%). Management of these infection did not differ in common pathogens between the 2 decades. The susceptibility of Staphylococcus species to oxacillin reduced significantly (P = .002) and there was an increase in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus keratitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Contact lens wear remained the most common predisposing factor, with Pseudomonas species as the major pathogen. However, chronic disorder-related MK was on the rise along with an increasing trend of oxacillin resistance in Staphylococcus species. We found a decreasing trend in NTM keratitis while Microsporidia keratitis was considered as an emerging ocular disease. Though gram-negative isolates remained susceptible to all antibiotics tested, antibiotic resistance was more common in gram-positive isolates.

Successful Treatment of Mycobacterium chelonae Keratitis Within a Corneal Transplant Using Intrastromal Amikacin Injections-A Case Report Demonstrating the Fundamental Principles and Challenges of Infective Keratitis Management and Novel Therapeutic Approaches

Mycobacterium chelonae keratitis is rare and difficult to treat. This is the first known case worldwide of effective treatment using intrastromal amikacin injections in a corneal transplant recipient who had metastatic breast cancer. The challenges and principles of management, applicable to other causes of infective keratitis, are reviewed.

Non-tuberculous mycobacterial ocular infection masquerading as choroidal tumour - a diagnostic conundrum

Purpose: To report a rare case of non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) choroiditis masquerading as choroidal tumour, where the initial diagnosis was masked by keratitis. Case description: A 57-year-old heroin chaser with a pre-existing left eye blindness due to past blunt trauma presented with diffuse bacterial keratitis on the same side. Systemic examination revealed multiple non-tender cervical lymphadenopathies. B-scan ultrasonography showed a hyperechoic choroidal mass with surrounding exudative retinal detachment, resembling a choroidal tumour. However, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan findings were suggestive of inflammatory choroidal changes. Inflammatory markers were significantly raised and infective screening was positive for HIV and Hepatitis C. Tuberculosis workup was normal. In view of intractable pain, evisceration was done and his vitreous humour was sent for polymerase chain reaction (PCR). It was reported to be positive for Mycobacterium Fortuitum. Conclusion: NTM ocular infections are rare, challenging to diagnose, and potentially sight threatening. Early recognition and prompt treatment is life and vision saving.

Current significance of the Mycobacterium chelonae-abscessus group

Organisms of the Mycobacterium chelonae-abscessus group can be significant pathogens in humans. They produce a number of diseases including acute, invasive and chronic infections, which may be difficult to diagnose correctly. Identification among members of this group is complicated by differentiating at least eleven (11) known species and subspecies and complexity of identification methodologies. Treatment of their infections may be problematic due to their correct species identification, antibiotic resistance, their differential susceptibility to the limited number of drugs available, and scarcity of susceptibility testing.

Postoperative Mycobacteroides abscessus subsp. abscessus endophthalmitis: Clinical analysis of 12 clustered adults and a proposed therapeutic algorithm

PURPOSE

Postoperative endophthalmitis caused by nontuberculous mycobacterium is a rare but devastating complication after intraocular surgery. However, optimal treatment strategies remain undetermined in view of its rarity.

METHODS

We investigated the cases of culture-proven postoperative Mycobacteroides abscessus subsp. abscessus endophthalmitis in southern Taiwan, focusing on clinical manifestations and microbiological study, and aimed to describe clinical staging and to propose a therapeutic modality for this disease.

RESULTS

Twelve cases, including two published cases, were treated in two medical centers in southern Taiwan between Aug. 2011 and Dec. 2016, and all ever received cataract surgery at one clinic. Their disease courses could be categorized into four distinct stages, i.e., the initial, quiescent, recurrent, and end stage, and some cases experienced 1-4 cycles of quiescent-recurrent stages. Although all eyes ended up with phthisis or were eviscerated, the affected eyes receiving pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) tended to become quiescent and survived longer than those without PPV (adjusted hazard ratio: 13.9, p < 0.05). Eight isolates of eight patients were available for microbiological study. All isolates were susceptible to amikacin, and inducible clarithromycin resistance was observed in 100% of isolates.

CONCLUSION

Despite the preservation of vision in postoperative M.abscessus endophthalmitis remained a challenge, a stage-based approach is proposed, which may facilitate decision-makings for the future study.

Preventing Postoperative Atypical Mycobacterial Infection

PURPOSE

To report a recent outbreak of atypical mycobacterial infection following upper eyelid surgery and the results of a prevention protocol that was successfully instituted to dramatically reduce the infection rate.

METHODS

This is a multicenter retrospective nonrandomized comparative interventional case series. A chart review of 7 patients who developed atypical mycobacterium infection after undergoing blepharoplasty was conducted. Preventative intervention included exchanging ice compresses for reusable gel packs and substituting tap water with bottled or distilled water for facial cleaning during postoperative care. The main outcome measure was disease incidence.

RESULTS

Of the 368 patients who underwent upper eyelid blepharoplasty and/or blepharoptosis repair from December 2014 to May 2015, 7 people developed cutaneous atypical mycobacterium infection with an incidence of 1.9%. Eighty-six percent of patients received clarithromycin as part of their treatment with average treatment length of 2.8 months. Debridement was performed in 71% of the patients. Biopsy was performed in all patients, and all had histopathology showing granulomatous inflammation. A prevention protocol was developed to reduce potential inoculation in the immediate postoperative period, which successfully reduced the infection rate from 1.9% to 0.06% (p = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

Atypical mycobacterium infection, although rare, should be considered as a possible diagnosis in a blepharoplasty patient with delayed development of nodular lesions. Long-term clarithromycin therapy and debridement have shown good outcomes for these patients; however, the best treatment for any infection is prevention. This study provides the first evidence based approach within the ophthalmic literature for reducing the mycobacterium infection rate in blepharoplasty patients.

Mycobacterium abscessus Infections in Children: A Review of Current Literature

There is limited literature on Mycobacterium abscessus infections in children and limited data about its diagnosis and management. The incidence of infections due to M abscessus appears to be increasing in certain populations and can be a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.Management of these infections is challenging and relies on combination antimicrobial therapy and debridement of diseased tissue, depending on the site and extent of disease. Treatment regimens often are difficult to tolerate, and the antimicrobials used can cause significant adverse effects, particularly given the long duration of therapy needed.This review summarizes the literature and includes information from our own institution's experience on pediatric M abscessus infections including the epidemiology, transmission, clinical manifestations, and the management of these infections. Adult data have been used where there are limited pediatric data. Further studies regarding epidemiology and risk factors, clinical presentation, optimal treatment, and outcomes in children are necessary.

A cluster of nontuberculous mycobacterial endophthalmitis (NTME) cases after cataract surgery: clinical features and treatment outcomes

PURPOSE

To report the clinical features and treatment outcomes in a cluster of patients with endophthalmitis after cataract surgery caused by nontuberculous mycobacterium.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective chart review and noncomparative, consecutive case series. Nine consecutive cases of endophthalmitis, after cataract surgery in a local clinic, were referred to our hospital. The treatment outcomes and analysis of risk factors for infection are reported.

RESULTS

The major symptoms at presentation were pain, redness, and decreased vision. Best-corrected visual acuity at presentation ranged from hand motion in two cases (22%), counting fingers at 30 cm in three cases (33%), 20/100 in two cases (20%), 20/63 in one case (11%), to 20/50 in one (11%) case. The mean duration between cataract surgery to presentation at our hospital was 16.7 days. Prompt intravitreal injections (IVI) of amikacin (0.4 mg/0.1 mL) and vancomycin (1 mg/0.1 mL), with topical moxifloxacin were administered initially. Pars plana vitrectomy with amikacin (10 mg/L) and vancomycin (20 mg/L) intravitreal irrigation, and intraocular lens removal were performed for all patients. Systemic antibiotics including amikacin and tigecycline were prescribed for 10 days, and clarithromycin was prescribed for at least 3 months. In all the nine cases, the culture results from either aqueous tapping or vitrectomy sample were positive for nontuberculous Mycobacterium: Mycobacterium abscessus/chelonae, which was compatible with iatrogenic clustered infection. At the last follow-up, three cases (33.3%) had best-corrected visual acuity of counting fingers at 30 cm, while the other six cases had no light perception. Two cases (22%) were enucleated and one case (11%) had phthisis bulbi.

CONCLUSION

Nontuberculous mycobacterium endophthalmitis (NTME) often induces chronic recurrent or persistent intraocular inflammation. Very poor outcomes despite aggressive antibiotic treatment and repeated surgical interventions are suggestive of the virulent nature of the organisms. Autoclave sterilization and perioperative disinfection may help in reducing iatrogenic clustered infection.

Identification of the Infection Source of an Outbreak of Mycobacterium Chelonae Keratitis After Laser in Situ Keratomileusis

PURPOSE

Nontuberculous mycobacteria keratitis is a rare but challenging complication of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). This study was conducted to determine the source(s) of infection in a cluster of cases of keratitis after LASIK and to describe this outbreak and patients' outcomes.

METHODS

In this retrospective, case series, single-center study, 86 patients were included who underwent LASIK or photorefractive keratectomy between December 2011 and February 2012. Corneal scrapes from the affected eyes, samples of tap and distilled water, water from the reservoir of the distilling equipment, steamer, and autoclave cassette; antiseptic and anesthetic solutions and surgical instrument imprints were cultivated in liquid and on solid media. Gram-negative bacteria and yeasts were identified using automated systems and mycobacteria by polymerase chain reaction-restriction enzyme analysis of the hsp65 gene (PRA-hsp65) and DNA sequencing. Mycobacterial isolates were typed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. The cases and outcomes are described. The main outcome measure was identification of the source(s) of the mycobacterial infections.

RESULTS

Eight (15 eyes) of 86 patients (172 eyes) who underwent LASIK developed infections postoperatively; no patients who underwent photorefractive keratectomy developed infections. Mycobacterium chelonae was isolated from 4 eyes. The distilled water collected in the surgical facility contained the same M. chelonae strain isolated from the patients' eyes. Different gram-negative bacteria and yeasts were isolated from samples collected at the clinic but not from the patients' eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

Tap water distilled locally in surgical facilities may be a source of infection after ocular surgery and its use should be avoided.

Late-onset postoperative Mycobacterium haemophilum endophthalmitis masquerading as inflammatory uveitis: a case report

Background

Although atypical mycobacteria had been increasingly found in various ocular infections in the past decades, a slow-growing Mycobacterium haemophilum (M. haemophilum) was scarcely reported. Similar to tuberculous infection, the presentation can masquerade as low-grade granulomatous intraocular inflammation with partial response to corticosteroids. Besides, the special requirements for culture make this pathogen difficult to diagnose. The study aims to report the clinical presentation and notify the awareness of NTM endophthalmitis among clinicians. This is the first case report of late-onset, postoperative M. haemophilum endophthalmitis in the literature.

Case presentation

A 66-year-old man with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) manifested chronic granulomatous inflammation in the left eye after multiple glaucoma surgeries. With a diagnosis of noninfectious panuveitis, he was treated with systemic corticosteroids. The inflammation initially responded to therapy although it subsequently worsened and became purulent endophthalmitis. The vitreous cultures grew M. haemophilum. Intraocular and systemic antimicrobial treatments were administered early, but the patient eventually turned blind.

Conclusions

M. haemophilum endophthalmitis is a rare but serious intraocular complication leading to loss of vision or eyeball. Awareness of atypical mycobacterial infections is necessary especially in patients with impaired immune function, previous intraocular surgery, and corticosteroid resistance. Proper laboratory investigations and treatments should be performed. However, due to the rarity of the disease, the development of guidelines for its investigation and therapy is still challenging.

Acute postcataract endophthalmitis at a referral center in northern Taiwan: Causative organisms, clinical features, and visual acuity outcomes after treatment: A retrospective cohort study

Acute-onset endophthalmitis after cataract surgery is a rare but serious complication. In this study, we identified the clinical profile of acute-onset endophthalmitis after cataract surgery using a retrospective review between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2015 at a referral center in northern Taiwan. Twenty-five eyes of 25 patients with endophthalmitis were included; 60% were male. The mean age at diagnosis was 70.44 ± 1.66 years. The right eye was affected in 44% of patients. The mean time of cataract surgery to hospital was 12.76 ± 1.88 days. The mean time from the onset of endophthalmitis to hospital was 3.72 ± 0.78 days. Furthermore, 56% of patients received the immediate treatment of an intracameral or intravitreal injection of antibiotics at a clinic before referral. The mean initial visual acuity was 1.97 ± 0.15 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution. The initial examination found corneal edema in 84% of patients, hypopyon in 48%, and vitritis in 88%. A total of 76% of patients underwent an initial treatment of pars plana vitrectomy and intraocular antibiotic injection (IOAI); 24% received an IOAI. The culture results of 52% (13/25) of patients were positive; 4 isolates were gram-positive, 8 were nontuberculosis Mycobacterium abscessus, and 1 was fungal. Thirteen of 25 patients had hypertension; 2 of 25 had diabetes mellitus. The mean follow-up time was 61.64 ± 8.27 days. Multiple factors influenced the final visual outcome of acute-onset endophthalmitis after cataract surgery. This study found that early referral for treatment could improve the final outcome. In addition, postcataract endophthalmitis caused by M abscessus recurs easily and has a worse visual outcome despite appropriate treatment.

Multiple abdominal abscesses - A not so common presentation of NTM

Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria/Mycobacterium other than tuberculosis (MOTT) are ubiquitous organisms. They are acid fast bacilli often giving trouble to the physician to distinguish it from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. These organisms are a menace for the treating physician as when to treat and when not to treat. They are often difficult to diagnose and may present in a variety of forms with propensity to cause number of infections of different body parts and organs. They are more common in immunocompromised individuals e.g. HIV infection. Here we are reporting a not so common manifestation of NTM which presented as multiple abdominal abscesses in a middle aged female probably secondary to surgical site infection, however she responded dramatically to the designed treatment.

Discovery of novel antimycobacterial drug therapy in biofilm of pathogenic nontuberculous mycobacterial keratitis

PURPOSE

The potential of slow-growing mycobacteria to form biofilms in human tissues contributes to the problem of establishing an effective treatment strategy. The purpose of this study was to examine new antibiotic strategies to enhance current treatment options for these infections.

METHODS

Sensitivities of Mycobacterium fortuitum ATCC 49404 and Mycobacterium chelonae ATCC 35752 were evaluated for different antimicrobials singly and in combination using broth microdilution and FICI (Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index) synergy screening. Anti-biofilm effects were evaluated in an 8-well chamber slide biofilm model. The efficacy of a new treatment strategy was validated using the novel neutropenic mouse keratitis model and monitored by slit-lamp microscopy, confocal microscopy, and colony forming unit measurements.

RESULTS

We reported the very first evidence that these organisms develop corneal biofilms by the accumulation of extracellular DNA (eDNA) and the presence of microcolonies using a novel mycobacterial neutropenic mouse keratitis model. The combination of amikacin and gatifloxacin or besifloxacin was more effective than the current gold-standard drug, amikacin, and we developed a novel treatment strategy (amikacin + gatifloxacin + DNase), the destruction of biofilm matrix component, eDNA, which increased the efficacy of the new antibiotic combination for treating mycobacterial infection in in vitro (P = 0.002) and in vivo (P = 0.001) compared to its respective control.

CONCLUSION

Biofilms have a role in mycobacterial keratitis leading to poor treatment outcomes in clinical practice and the use of combination therapy (amikacin + gatifloxacin + DNase) could be a useful new treatment option.

Effects of Disseminated Mycobacterial Infection on Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Our patient, in the 7th decade of life, presented with worsening blurry vision over 3 weeks. The pertinent history included nonexudative age-related macular degeneration, recent pulmonary mycobacterial infection, and autoimmune pancreatitis. The patient had decreased visual acuity in both eyes; the remaining findings of our examination were relatively benign. The diagnosis of bilateral exudative age-related macular degeneration was aided by ocular imaging. Not only were exudative changes confirmed, but one modality suggested an underlying occult choroiditis, which presumably fueled a local inflammatory drive leading to evolution of the disease. Given the choroiditis developed in the setting of a recent Mycobacterium chelonae infection, dissemination of the organism must be considered a potential culprit. Additionally, a chronic inflammatory state perhaps played a simultaneous immunologic role. We feel the proposed pathogenic mechanism outlined sufficiently accounts for the rare event, that is, development of subacute bilateral exudative maculopathy. The patient responded well to bilateral intravitreal aflibercept injections. After 1 month, visual acuity was found to be near baseline and ocular imaging showed significant resolution of the exudative changes. An additional follow-up 3 months after confirmed similar stability. This case required thorough investigation of seemingly unrelated components within the patient's history. We stress the importance of obtaining appropriate documentation from fellow health care teams when suspicious clinical presentations arise. During our investigation, we identified cryptic retinal lesions by way of angiography – leading us to recommend usage of such methods in complex cases. We also summarize the implemented aflibercept course and the favorable response to such treatment.