Endogenous Klebsiella endophthalmitis. Report of two cases and review of the literature

Hypervirulent Klebsiella Pneumoniae, an Emerging Cause of Endogenous Endophthalmitis in A French Center: A Comparative Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) is the most common cause of endogenous endophthalmitis (EE) in Asia, but data in Europe are scarce. We describe eight cases of KP EE compared to a cohort of EE in a French center.

METHODS

EE cases were retrospectively studied between January 2014 and January 2021. KP EE cases were analyzed to assess clinical, microbiological features, and outcome.

RESULTS

Among the 33 EE cases identified, the first causative agent (24%, n = 8) was KP, mainly (7/8) with hypervirulent phenotype (hvKP). All but one of these cases occurred from December 2019 to January 2021. Contrary to non-KP patients, KP patients had multiple extraocular infective foci (p = .006), all presented with liver abscesses (p < .001), 50% had cerebral involvement (p = .13). Visual outcome was poor in both groups.

CONCLUSION

KP is an emerging cause of EE in a French center, consistently associated with liver abscesses, frequent cerebral involvement, and predominance of hvKP strains.

Endogenous Endophthalmitis-The Clinical Significance of the Primary Source of Infection

Endophthalmitis is a severe form of ocular inflammation. The source of pathogens in endogenous endophthalmitis is located inside the body, and infection spreads hematogenously. Although rare, endogenous endophthalmitis is a very serious condition, as this type of inflammation is very devastating for ocular tissues. Prognosis is very poor, and the patients are often in a serious general condition, so they require special care and an individual approach in the treatment process. Thanks to the knowledge of the risks associated with infections of individual tissues and organs as well as potential pathogens and the clinical picture, it is possible to make a correct diagnosis faster and implement the correct treatment. In the case of endogenous endophthalmitis, reaction time is absolutely crucial for prognosis. In this review, we focus primarily on the importance of the primary source of infection for the course of the disease and prognosis.

Endophthalmitis: Changes in Presentation, Management and the Role of Early Vitrectomy

Endophthalmitis is a sight-threatening condition, and its timely and appropriate management is essential in preventing permanent vision loss. Recent changes in clinical practice in endophthalmitis and advances in modern vitreoretinal surgery may limit the applicability of established randomised clinical trial evidence to current management. This review discusses the epidemiology, pathophysiology, changing patient presentation, diagnosis and advances in the management of endophthalmitis, presenting the existing literature on this topic and results from Sydney Eye Hospital.

Klebsiella pneumoniae endogenous endophthalmitis presenting as orbital cellulitis

This report describes the first documented case of Klebsiella pneumoniae endogenous endophthalmitis with concurrent orbital cellulitis in a patient without a liver abscess. A 34-year-old, caucasian male with a history of intravenous drug abuse and type 1 diabetes mellitus was transferred from an outside hospital for progressively worsening pain and swelling in the right eye. Careful history, physical examination, and imaging were consistent with a diagnosis of endogenous endophthalmitis with concurrent orbital cellulitis. Vitreous cultures were positive for Klebsiella pneumoniae. Despite aggressive and early intervention with antibiotics and vitrectomy, the patient's condition continued to worsen and evisceration was required to adequately control the infection. Klebsiella pneumoniae endogenous endophthalmitis with concurrent orbital cellulitis is a rare and often blinding infection, despite appropriately aggressive intervention.

Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae

Hypervirulent K. pneumoniae (hvKp) is an evolving pathotype that is more virulent than classical K. pneumoniae (cKp). hvKp usually infects individuals from the community, who are often healthy. Infections are more common in the Asian Pacific Rim but are occurring globally. hvKp infection frequently presents at multiple sites or subsequently metastatically spreads, often requiring source control. hvKp has an increased ability to cause central nervous system infection and endophthalmitis, which require rapid recognition and site-specific treatment. The genetic factors that confer hvKp's hypervirulent phenotype are present on a large virulence plasmid and perhaps integrative conjugal elements. Increased capsule production and aerobactin production are established hvKp-specific virulence factors. Similar to cKp, hvKp strains are becoming increasingly resistant to antimicrobials via acquisition of mobile elements carrying resistance determinants, and new hvKp strains emerge when extensively drug-resistant cKp strains acquire hvKp-specific virulence determinants, resulting in nosocomial infection. Presently, clinical laboratories are unable to differentiate cKp from hvKp, but recently, several biomarkers and quantitative siderophore production have been shown to accurately predict hvKp strains, which could lead to the development of a diagnostic test for use by clinical laboratories for optimal patient care and for use in epidemiologic surveillance and research studies.

Targets of immunomodulation in bacterial endophthalmitis

Bacterial infection of the posterior segment of the eye (endophthalmitis) leads to a robust host response that often results in irreversible damage to the layers of the retina, significant vision loss, and in some patients, enucleation of the globe. While a great deal of effort has gone into understanding the role of bacterial virulence factors in disease initiation and propagation, it is becoming increasingly clear that the host response to infection plays a major role in causing the damage associated with endophthalmitis. Researchers have identified the host receptors which detect infecting organisms and initiate the cascade of events that result in inflammation. This inflammation may damage nonregenerative tissues of the eye while attempting to clear the infection. Both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria can cause endophthalmitis. These organisms initiate an immune response by activating toll-like receptor (TLR) pathways. Once an inflammatory response is initiated, the expression of immunomodulators, such as proinflammatory chemokines and cytokines, affect the recruitment of PMNs and other inflammatory cells into the eye. We and others have reported that knockout mice that do not express specific inflammatory pathways and molecules have an attenuated response to infection and retain significant retinal function. These findings suggest that host immune mediators are important components of the response to infections in the posterior segment of the eye, and the timing and level of their production may be related to the severity of the damage and the ultimate visual outcome. If that is the case, a better understanding of the complex and often redundant role of these pathways and inflammatory mediators may identify host molecules as potential anti-inflammatory therapeutic targets. This review highlights potential anti-inflammatory targets during acute inflammation in endophthalmitis, compares and contrasts those with findings in other models of ocular inflammation, and translates current immunomodulatory strategies for other types of infection and inflammation to this blinding disease. Given the poor visual outcomes seen in patients treated with antibiotics alone or in combination with corticosteroids, immunomodulation in addition to antibiotic therapy might be more effective in preserving vision than current regimens.

Prognostic Factors and Visual Outcomes of Pyogenic Liver Abscess-Related Endogenous Klebsiella pneumoniae Endophthalmitis: A 20-year retrospective review

Endogenous K. pneumoniae endophthalmitis (EKE) has a higher incidence among East Asians, and the most common infectious source of EKE is pyogenic liver abscess (PLA). We investigate the risk factors for poor visual outcomes in patients with PLA-related EKE. The retrospective medical records of 104 patients (120 eyes) diagnosed with PLA-related EKE between 1996 and 2015. In univariate logistic regression analysis, the risk factors for poor visual outcomes were initial visual acuity (VA) worse than counting fingers (CF) (p < 0.001), eye pain (p = 0.013), hypopyon (p = 0.003), ocular hypertension (p = 0.003), positive intraocular fluids cultures (p < 0.001), subretinal abscess (p = 0.025), unilateral involvement (p = 0.017), delayed ophthalmologic visit (p = 0.022), initially presented with ocular symptoms ahead of systemic symptoms (p < 0.001), and corneal edema (p < 0.001). Intravitreal dexamethasone reduced the requirement of enucleation or evisceration (p = 0.01). The multivariate logistic regression revealed that poor initial VA worse than CF (p = 0.004) and initially presented with ocular symptoms ahead of systemic symptoms (p = 0.007) were the significant independent factors for poor visual outcomes. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment may salvage useful vision in some eyes.

Infectious Sources, Prognostic Factors, and Visual Outcomes of Endogenous Klebsiella pneumoniae Endophthalmitis

PURPOSE

To investigate the infectious sources and prognostic factors for poor visual outcome, including subjective symptoms, presenting clinical features, laboratory data, and treatments, in patients diagnosed with endogenous Klebsiella pneumoniae endophthalmitis (EKE) at a tertiary referral center in Northern Taiwan.

DESIGN

Retrospective, single-institution, consecutive case series.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred ten consecutive patients (124 eyes) diagnosed with EKE.

METHODS

One hundred ten patients (124 eyes) were reviewed retrospectively between January 1996 and April 2013.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Visual acuity (VA), subjective symptoms, presenting clinical features, laboratory data, treatments, and requirement of evisceration or enucleation.

RESULTS

Of the 110 patients with EKE, 74 (67.3%) were men. Diabetes was the most commonly associated systemic disease (75/110 [68.2%]), and liver abscess was the major infection source (85/110 [77.3%]). In addition, 91 of 124 eyes (73.4%) had final VA worse than counting fingers (CF; poor visual outcome), and 20 eyes required evisceration or enucleation. The binary multivariate logistic regression (forward-Wald) model revealed that poor initial VA worse than CF (odds ratio [OR], 8.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.2-36; P = 0.002), positive vitreous culture results (OR, 9.8; 95% CI, 1.7-56.1; P = 0.010), posterior focal EKE (OR, 0.15; 95% CI, 0.03-0.8; P = 0.027), and the presence of intravitreal dexamethasone administration (OR, 0.19; 95% CI, 0.04-0.9; P = 0.030) were the significant independent factors for visual outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Liver abscess was the major infection source, and EKE typically has poor visual prognosis. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment may salvage useful vision in some eyes. Early diagnosis with fair initial VA and intravitreal antibiotic and dexamethasone combination therapy may have beneficial effects on visual outcomes.

Clinical profile and outcomes of pediatric endogenous endophthalmitis: A report of 11 cases from South India

AIM

To study the clinical profile and outcomes of pediatric endogenous endophthalmitis from a tertiary eye hospital in South India.

METHODS

A total of 13 eyes of 11 children presented to us with varied symptoms and presentations of endogenous endophthalmitis, over a five-year period from January 2010 to December 2015 were studied. Except for two eyes of a patient, vitreous aspirates were cultured from all 11 eyes to isolate the causative organism. These eleven eyes also received intravitreal injections. All patients were treated with systemic antibiotics.

RESULTS

Two cases had bilateral endophthalmitis. Ages ranged from 4 d to 11 years. Five cases were undiagnosed and treated, before being referred to our center. Ten of the 13 eyes underwent a core vitrectomy. The vitrectomy was done at an average on the second day after presenting (range 0-20 d). Five of the 11 vitreous aspirates showed isolates. The incriminating organisms were bacteria in three and fungus in two. An underlying predisposing factor was found in seven patients. At a mean follow-up 21.5 mo, outcome was good in 7 eyes of 6 cases (54%), five eyes of four cases (38%) ended up with phthisis bulbi while one child died of systemic complications.

CONCLUSION

Endogenous endophthalmitis is a challenge for ophthalmologists. Early diagnosis and intervention is the key for a better outcome.

ESBL E. coli Urosepsis Resulting in Endogenous Panophthalmitis Requiring Evisceration of the Eye in a Diabetic Patient

A primary infection in a remote site resulting in vision threatening complications like panophthalmitis in a person who is not immune-compromised is rare. We report a case of endogenous bilateral bacterial endophthalmitis progressing into panophthalmitis in one eye requiring evisceration of that eye. A patient admitted with severe ESBL E. coli urosepsis was effectively treated with source control (bilateral DJ stenting for hydroureteronephrosis) and antibiotics. She was found to have features suggestive of bilateral conjunctivitis which progressed to panophthalmitis possibly due to delay in appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosis requires a very high index of suspicion if eye involvement is noted in a patient with features of bacteraemia and early intervention could possibly produce better outcomes. To our knowledge, this is the first case of ESBL E. coli urosepsis complicated by microbiologically confirmed panophthalmitis.

Endophthalmitis caused by Klebsiella species

PURPOSE

To report the clinical presentation, antibiotic sensitivities, treatment strategies, and visual outcomes associated with endophthalmitis caused by Klebsiella species.

METHODS

A noncomparative consecutive case series. Microbiology database records were retrospectively reviewed for all patients with endophthalmitis caused by Klebsiella species from 1990 to 2012 at a large university referral center. The corresponding clinical records were then reviewed to evaluate the endophthalmitis clinical features and treatment outcomes.

RESULTS

Seven patients were identified. Clinical settings included endogenous (n = 3), posttraumatic (n = 2), trabeculectomy bleb-associated (n = 1), and postpenetrating keratoplasty (n = 1). Five patients presented with hypopyon. Presenting visual acuity ranged from 20/60 to light perception in nonendogenous cases and 1/200 to light perception in endogenous cases. Klebsiella was sensitive to aminoglycosides, third-generation cephalosporins, and second- and third-generation fluoroquinolones in all cases. Initial treatment strategies were vitreous tap and injection (n = 4), pars plana vitrectomy with intravitreal antibiotics (n = 2), and anterior chamber tap and injection (n = 1). All three endogenous cases later underwent enucleation or evisceration. In nonendogenous cases, the final visual acuity was 20/70 or better in all 4 patients.

CONCLUSION

Endophthalmitis caused by Klebsiella species is associated with poor visual outcomes. Endogenous cases had high rates of enucleation or evisceration.

Pediatric infectious endophthalmitis: a review

Infectious endophthalmitis is a rare but severe complication of septecemia, intraocular surgeries, or penetrating eye trauma. The etiology, prognosis, and management of pediatric endophthalmitis resulting from exogenous and endogenous infections are reviewed. Open-globe trauma and glaucoma surgery are the most frequent causes of endophthalmitis in children, whereas endogenous infection is the least common cause. Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species are common bacterial agents in both posttraumatic and postoperative pediatric endophthalmitis, whereas Candida albicans is a commonly reported organism in endogenous endophthalmitis. Additionally, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae appear more likely as pathogens in children than in adults. The clinical manifestations and outcome usually correlate with the virulence of the infecting organism. The visual prognosis of endophthalmitis is generally poor.

The emergence of Klebsiella pneumoniae endogenous endophthalmitis in the USA: basic and clinical advances

Endogenous endophthalmitis (EE) is a rare but devastating infection that occurs secondary to seeding of the intraocular cavity from an extraocular focus. Recent reports suggest the increasing prevalence and incidence of Klebsiella pneumoniae as a causative organism in Asian countries. Analysis of the largest cohorts published to date suggests that K. pneumoniae endogenous endophthalmitis (KPEE) is 10 to 15 times more prevalent than other causes of EE. The incidence of KPEE among patients with systemic Klebsiella infection appears to be >100-fold more common than other causes of EE. The exact reason for these observations is not clear, but a number of studies now suggest that Klebsiella serotypes K1 and K2 have virulence factors that enhance their survival in diabetic patients and increase their pathogenicity. Here, we report two cases of KPEE in the USA. We also review the recent clinical and basic science literature on the prevalence, incidence, and pathophysiology of this emerging and devastating infection.

Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess: a new invasive syndrome

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a well known human nosocomial pathogen. Most community-acquired K pneumoniae infections cause pneumonia or urinary tract infections. During the past two decades, however, a distinct invasive syndrome that causes liver abscesses has been increasingly reported in Asia, and this syndrome is emerging as a global disease. In this Review, we summarise the clinical presentation and management as well the microbiological aspects of this invasive disease. Diabetes mellitus and two specific capsular types in the bacterium predispose a patient to the development of liver abscesses and the following metastatic complications: bacteraemia, meningitis, endophthalmitis, and necrotising fasciitis. For patients with this invasive syndrome, appropriate antimicrobial treatment combined with percutaneous drainage of liver abscesses increases their chances of survival. Rapid detection of the hypervirulent strain that causes this syndrome allows earlier diagnosis and treatment, thus minimising the occurrence of sequelae and improving clinical outcomes.

Hypervirulent (hypermucoviscous) Klebsiella pneumoniae: a new and dangerous breed

A new hypervirulent (hypermucoviscous) variant of Klebsiella pneumoniae has emerged. First described in the Asian Pacific Rim, it now increasingly recognized in Western countries. Defining clinical features are the ability to cause serious, life-threatening community-acquired infection in younger healthy hosts, including liver abscess, pneumonia, meningitis and endophthalmitis and the ability to metastatically spread, an unusual feature for enteric Gram-negative bacilli in the non-immunocompromised. Despite infecting a healthier population, significant morbidity and mortality occurs. Although epidemiologic features are still being defined, colonization, particularly intestinal colonization, appears to be a critical step leading to infection. However the route of entry remains unclear. The majority of cases described to date are in Asians, raising the issue of a genetic predisposition vs. geospecific strain acquisition. The traits that enhance its virulence when compared with “classical” K. pneumoniae are the ability to more efficiently acquire iron and perhaps an increase in capsule production, which confers the hypermucoviscous phenotype. An objective diagnostic test suitable for routine use in the clinical microbiology laboratory is needed. If/when these strains become increasingly resistant to antimicrobials, we will be faced with a frightening clinical scenario.

Risk factors for endogenous endophthalmitis secondary to klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess: 20-year experience in Southern Taiwan

PURPOSE

To identify the risk factors for endogenous endophthalmitis secondary to Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of medical records of 602 patients admitted with K. pneumoniae liver abscess from January 1991 to November 2009. Variables included age, sex, history, month of onset, systemic condition, initial and final visual acuities, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, intraocular pressure, fundus, course and treatment.

RESULTS

Endophthalmitis was identified in 42 patients (53 eyes). Nineteen eyes (35.8%) had final vision of counting fingers or better. Diabetes was significantly associated with the development of endophthalmitis (P = 0.003) and poor visual outcome (P = 0.019). Poor initial vision (worse than counting fingers) was also significantly related to the poor visual outcome of endophthalmitis (P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis of 9 vitrectomy cases showed that progressive anterior chamber reaction might be related to poor visual outcome. Moreover, patients whose disease onset was in winter were slightly more likely to develop endophthalmitis (P = 0.088).

CONCLUSION

Although the prognosis of endogenous K. pneumoniae endophthalmitis is generally poor, some eyes might be saved if treated early enough. Diabetes is a significant risk factor for the development of endogenous endophthalmitis and poor visual outcome in patients with K. pneumoniae liver abscess. Early vitrectomy might be considered in patients whose anterior chamber inflammation did not respond well to intravitreal antibiotics.

Prognostic factors and outcomes in endogenous Klebsiella pneumoniae endophthalmitis

PURPOSE

To determine risk factors for poor visual acuity outcomes in patients with endogenous Klebsiella pneumoniae endophthalmitis.

DESIGN

Retrospective case-control study.

METHODS

We reviewed all consecutive patients diagnosed with endogenous Klebsiella pneumoniae endophthalmitis over 20 years. Data collected included patients' demographics, clinical findings, investigations, and therapeutic intervention. Main outcome measures were visual acuity (VA) at 3 months postinfection and/or evisceration. Poor vision was defined as VA worse than 4/200.

RESULTS

Seventy-one eyes of 61 patients were studied. Mean age was 55.7 (standard deviation [SD] ± 13.1) years. Majority were male (49/61, 80.3%), Chinese (51/61, 83.6%), and had hepatobiliary sepsis (47/61, 77.5%). Mean time to ocular symptoms was 4.4 (± 3.0) days. Fifty-four of 71 eyes (80.2%) had poor vision and 19/71 eyes (26.8%) required evisceration. The most significant risk factor was hypopyon (41/71 eyes, 57.7%) on multivariate analysis (odds ratio [OR], 52.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.7-1000; P = .01). Unilateral involvement (OR, 10.4; 95% CI, 1.2-90.2; P = .01) and patients that were managed before year 2000 (before routine screening was implemented) (OR, 5.2; 95% CI, 1.5-17.9; P = .037) were significant risk factors for evisceration on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

Patients presenting with hypopyon and unilateral involvement have a poorer prognosis.

Endogenous endophthalmitis associated with liver abscess caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae

To report two unusual cases of endogenous endophthalmitis associated with liver abscess caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae. Retrospective, interventional case series. Two patients, known to have type II diabetes mellitus, presented with sudden visual loss following several days of abdominal pain. Examinations and investigations revealed endogenous endophthalmitis caused by K. pneumoniae. Despite treatment in the form of intravitreal injection of antibiotics in the first patient and pars plana vitrectomy coupled with intravitreal injection of antibiotics in the second patient the final visual outcome was poor in both cases. The possibility of K. pneumoniae endogenous endophthalmitis should be suspected in diabetic patients presenting with intraocular inflammation.

Successful treatment of endogenous Klebsiella pneumoniae endophthalmitis: a case report

BACKGROUND

Klebsiella pneumoniae endophthalmitis is rare and despite immediate management, visual outcome is generally poor. We report a case of endogenous K. pneumoniae endophthalmitis that was treated successfully.

CASE

An 80-year-old woman with a liver abscess was diagnosed at an early stage with endogenous K. pneumoniae endophthalmitis. She underwent par plana vitrectomy and lensectomy within 8 h after the onset of ocular symptoms. Secondary implantation of a sulcus-fixated intra-ocular lens (IOL) was performed 12 months later. Final visual acuity OS was 20/20.

CONCLUSIONS

The present case highlights the potential benefit of early and broad vitrectomy with lensectomy in the management of endogenous K. pneumoniae endophthalmitis.

Diversity and complexity of urinary tract infection in diabetes mellitus

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common burden in patients with diabetes mellitus. Cystitis, ascending infections leading to pyelonephritis, emphysematous complications and renal and perinephric abscesses are well recognised in this group of patients especially if glycaemic control is poor. Despite the clinical significance of UTI in diabetes, it is inadequately understood and management regimens are mostly not evidence based. Anticipation of potential complications and earlier interventions are vital to reduce serious adverse outcomes. Herein we discuss the aetiology, pathogenesis and management of UTI and its local and more remote complications.

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment after a lower extremity dog bite: a case report

Introduction

The occurrence of endogenous endophthalmitis is well known in the settings of bacteremia or candidemia, although its association with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment remains unclear.

Case presentation

We present a case of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in a 39 year old man who presented with acute vision loss six weeks after a lower extremity dog bite. Further workup revealed oxacillin resistant staphylococcus aureus bacteremia with multiple septic emboli to various organs including bilateral loculated pleural effusion, left renal abscess, left obturator abscess, and right eye endogenous endophthalmitis.

Conclusion

Our case illustrates an interesting presentation of oxacillin resistant staphylococcus aureus bacteremia after a dog bite, where endogenous endophthalmitis and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment were part of the manifestations. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to preserve the visual acuity.

Endogenous Klebsiella endophthalmitis associated with pyogenic liver abscess

OBJECTIVE

To study risk factors, clinical features, treatment, and visual outcomes in patients with endogenous Klebsiella pneumoniae endophthalmitis (EKE) associated with K. pneumoniae-induced pyogenic liver abscess, and to investigate contributing factors in successfully treated cases.

DESIGN

Retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Review of medical records of 22 consecutive patients with EKE and pyogenic liver abscess.

METHODS

The affected eyes of 22 consecutive patients (n = 27) with EKE, who presented to our ophthalmic service during a recent 8-year period, were studied retrospectively.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Best-corrected visual acuity (VA) at end of follow up.

RESULTS

Diabetes mellitus was the most common comorbid risk factor (n = 15 [68%]). Five patients (23%) had bilateral eye involvement. On initial presentation, characteristic pupillary hypopyon was observed in 12 eyes. Diagnosis was confirmed by blood culture in 8 patients, culture of liver aspirate in 17 patients, and vitreous culture in 11 patients. Other associated septic metastatic lesions included pulmonary abscess or emboli in 6 cases, brain abscess or meningitis in 3 cases, and prostate and kidney abscesses in 1 case. Despite aggressive intravenous and intravitreal antibiotic therapy, final VA of light perception or worse affected 24 eyes (89%), of which 11 (41%) were eventually eviscerated or enucleated. Successful treatment with retained useful vision better than 6/60 was achieved in 3 eyes, of which 2 received early intravitreal corticosteroid injections. However, the other remaining eye had a focal subretinal abscess.

CONCLUSION

Physicians should be alert to the development of EKE when patients with diabetes along with K. pneumoniae-induced pyogenic liver abscess complain of ocular symptoms. In the majority of patients with EKE associated with pyogenic liver abscess, visual outcome is generally poor despite aggressive antibiotic therapy. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention with intravitreal antibiotics within 48 hours may salvage useful vision in some patients with EKE.

Endogenous Endophthalmitis and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Complicating a Klebsiella pneumoniae Perirenal Abscess in a Patient with Type 2 Diabetes

We describe a 56-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes complicated by a Klebsiella pneumoniae perirenal abscess. The patient further developed incipient diabetic ketoacidosis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and endogenous endophthalmitis. Occurrence of the latter as a metastatic infection from perirenal abscess caused by this organism is very rare, and we know of no previously reported patient with the additional occurrence of disseminated intravascular coagulation. Since prompt intravitreal antibiotic administration is needed, physicians should be aware of these rare but severe complications of K pneumoniae infection, especially in patients with poorly controlled diabetes.

Klebsiella pneumoniae fascial space infections of the head and neck in Taiwan: emphasis on diabetic patients and repetitive infections

OBJECTIVES

To assess the epidemiological features, clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcome of head and neck infections caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae.

METHODS

We reviewed records of four common aerobic pathogens isolated by the microbiological laboratory of a teaching hospital in Taiwan from July 1995 to December 1999. Patients aged 14 or older with community-acquired fascial space infections of head and neck were identified by review of medical records and included in the study.

RESULTS

A total of 100 cases were identified, and K. pneumoniae was the most common pathogen of monomicrobial infections (48%), followed by viridans streptococci (15%). Polymicrobial infections were noted in 35 cases. In comparison with patients with infections not caused by K. pneumoniae, those with monomicrobial K. pneumoniae infections were older (P = 0.04) and had a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus (P < 0.001), a longer duration of antimicrobial therapy (P = 0.007), a longer hospital stay (P = 0.001), and more repetitive infections (P = 0.001). All but one of K. pneumoniae isolates were susceptible to first generation cephalosporins and aminoglycosides.

CONCLUSIONS

K. pneumoniae is an important endemic pathogen of fascial space infections of head and neck in Taiwan, especially among diabetics. Physicians should be aware of the tendency of this organism to cause repetitive infection.

Endogenous bacterial endophthalmitis: a 17-year prospective series and review of 267 reported cases

Endogenous bacterial endophthalmitis is a rare but serious condition that occurs when bacteria cross the blood-ocular barrier and multiply within the eye. We provide an overview of endogenous bacterial endophthalmitis by reviewing 267 reported cases and integrating this with our experience of an additional 19 cases. The majority of patients with endogenous bacterial endophthalmitis are initially misdiagnosed and many have an underlying disease known to predispose to infection. This condition is often previously undiagnosed. Blood cultures are the most frequent means of establishing the diagnosis. The most common Gram positive organisms are Staphylococcus aureus, group B streptococci, Streptococcus pneumoniae,and Listeria monocytogenes. The most common Gram negative organisms are Klebsiella spp., Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Neisseria meningitidis. Gram negative organisms are responsible for the majority of cases reported from East Asian hospitals, but Gram positive organisms are more common in North America and Europe. The visual outcome is poor with most cases leading to blindness in the affected eye. Many patients have extraocular foci of infection, with an associated mortality rate of 5%. The outcome of endogenous bacterial endophthalmitis has not improved in 55 years and clinicians need to have a high level of awareness of this commonly misdiagnosed condition.

Result of early vitrectomy for endogenous Klebsiella pneumoniae endophthalmitis

PURPOSE

To determine the role of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in the treatment of Klebsiella pneumoniae endogenous endophthalmitis.

METHODS

Records of seven consecutive patients (10 eyes) diagnosed with Klebsiella endogenous endophthalmitis were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Five patients (71%) had diabetes, and four (57%) had a liver abscess as the source. In most cases, the inflammation progressed within days and resulted in decreased vision worse than hand motions and a total vitreous abscess, despite systemic and intravitreal antibiotic injections. A PPV with subretinal abscess drainage and silicone oil tamponade was performed within 2 weeks. After 6 months, the retina remained attached in all eyes (100%), and vision was counting fingers or better in five eyes (50%). Two eyes recovered visual acuity between 20/63 and 20/125.

CONCLUSIONS

Physicians should be alerted to the development of endogenous endophthalmitis in patients with Klebsiella septicemia, especially in diabetics with a hepatobiliary abscess. Aggressive therapy, including early vitrectomy with antibiotic injection, may improve the final outcome in this otherwise devastating ocular condition.

Community-acquired Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteremia: global differences in clinical patterns

We initiated a worldwide collaborative study, including 455 episodes of bacteremia, to elucidate the clinical patterns of Klebsiella pneumoniae. Historically, community-acquired pneumonia has been consistently associated with K. pneumoniae. Only four cases of community-acquired bacteremic K. pneumoniae pneumonia were seen in the 2-year study period in the United States, Argentina, Europe, or Australia; none were in alcoholics. In contrast, 53 cases of bacteremic K. pneumoniae pneumonia were observed in South Africa and Taiwan, where an association with alcoholism persisted (p=0.007). Twenty-five cases of a distinctive syndrome consisting of K. pneumoniae bacteremia in conjunction with community-acquired liver abscess, meningitis, or endophthalmitis were observed. A distinctive form of K. pneumoniae infection, often causing liver abscess, was identified, almost exclusively in Taiwan.

Bacterial endophthalmitis: epidemiology, therapeutics, and bacterium-host interactions

Endophthalmitis is a severe inflammation of the interior of the eye caused by the introduction of contaminating microorganisms following trauma, surgery, or hematogenous spread from a distant infection site. Despite appropriate therapeutic intervention, bacterial endophthalmitis frequently results in visual loss, if not loss of the eye itself. Although the pathogenicity of bacterial endophthalmitis has historically been linked with toxin production during infection, a paucity of information exists as to the exact mechanisms of retinal toxicity and the triggers for induction of the intraocular immune response. Recently, research has begun to examine the bacterial and host molecular and cellular events that contribute to ocular damage during endophthalmitis. This review focuses on the causative agents and therapeutic challenges of bacterial endophthalmitis and provides current data from the analysis of the role of bacterial virulence factors and host inflammatory interactions in the pathogenesis of eye infections. Based on these and related studies, a hypothetical model for the molecular pathogenesis of bacterial endophthalmitis is proposed. Identifying and understanding the basic mechanisms of these bacterium-host interactions will provide the foundation for which novel, information-based therapeutic agents are developed in order to prevent vision loss during endophthalmitis.

Pyogenic liver abscess complicated by endogenous endophthalmitis

BACKGROUND

Endogenous endophthalmitis is an inflammation of ocular tissues that can lead to deterioration of and loss of vision. Rarely, this can complicate the course of a patient with pyogenic liver abscess.

METHODS

Over an 18-month period, 68 patients were treated for pyogenic liver abscesses. Three patients, all of whom were male and with diabetes, were diagnosed with a Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess complicated by endogenous endophthalmitis. Open surgical or percutaneous drainage of the liver abscess was undertaken and the symptomology and outcome of the endophthalmitis reviewed.

RESULTS

There was no mortality in our series. Two patients presented with simultaneous abdominal and ocular symptoms and one patient had ocular symptoms 3 days after surgical drainage of the liver abscess. Despite aggressive treatment, all patients had permanent deterioration of visual function with one patient becoming blind and requiring evisceration of the infected eye.

CONCLUSION

Ocular symptoms in patients treated for pyogenic abscesses must be dealt with urgently with an ophthalmologic consultation. Increased awareness of this complication and a high index of suspicion are paramount for salvage of visual function.

Urinary tract infections in adults with diabetes

Urinary tract (UTI) is a major disease burden for many patients with diabetes. Asymptomatic bacteriuria is several-fold more common among women and acute plyelonephritis is five to ten times more common in both sexes. The complications of pyelonephritis are also more common in patients with diabetes. These complications include acute papillary necrosis, emphysematous pyelonephritis, and bacteremia with metastatic localization to other sites. The management of urinary infection in patients with diabetes is essentially the same as patients without diabetes. Most infections should be managed as uncomplicated except when they occur in a milieu with obstruction or other factors that merit a diagnosis of complicated UTI. Strategies to prevent these infections and reduce morbidity should be a priority for research.

Endogenous Klebsiella endophthalmitis

PURPOSE

To report 4 cases of endogenous Klebsiella endophthalmitis. This disease is a rare but devastating complication of Klebsiella sepsis. Familiarity with its varied clinical presentations would aid in early diagnosis and institution of appropriate therapy.

METHODS

We report 5 eyes of 4 patients with endogenous Klebsiella endophthalmitis from December 1995 to September 1996 and review the literature regarding previously successfully treated cases.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 67.5 years (range 37-85 years). One patient had bilateral involvement. At presentation, 3 eyes had a visual acuity of no perception of light (NPL) and the 1 patient with bilateral involvement had an acuity of counting fingers in one eye and 20/40 in the other. The primary source of sepsis was the pulmonary system in 2 patients, the hepatobiliary system in 1 patient and the urinary tract in 1 patient. One patient had coexisting diabetes mellitus. Two patients had a pupillary hypopyon. Local and systemic treatment with an aminoglycoside and cephalosporin was initiated. Despite treatment, 2 eyes remained NPL. One eye developed a globe perforation and was eviscerated. The patient with bilateral involvement was treated within 8 h and recovered fully with a final visual acuity of 20/20 in both eyes.

CONCLUSION

It is important to have a high index of suspicion in patients with septicaemia presenting with intraocular inflammation, especially in diabetics with suppurative liver disease, urinary tract infection or pulmonary infection. As the visual prognosis for patients with Klebsiella endophthalmitis is generally poor, early diagnosis and treatment with intravenous and intravitreal antibiotics may improve the visual outcome.

Bacterial subretinal abscess: a case report and review of the literature

PURPOSE

To report a case of Klebsiella subretinal abscess with a successful visual outcome with treatment and to review the literature pertaining to focal intraocular infection in bacterial endophthalmitis.

METHODS

Clinical data including medical history, findings on physical examination, blood cultures, and an abdominal computed tomographic scan were collected in a 32-year-old man with Klebsiella sepsis, liver abscesses, and a focal subretinal abscess. Ocular data including visual acuity, fundus photographs, fluorescein angiography, and ultrasound were evaluated, as were results of culture and histopathologic studies.

RESULTS

Despite immediate intervention, including vitreous tap and intravitreal antibiotics, the eye deteriorated, with enlargement of the abscess. A pars plana vitrectomy was performed in which the subretinal abscess material was removed after an extensive retinectomy of the involved area in association with an endophotocoagulative barrier and intravitreal amikacin without gas or oil tamponade. Culture confirmed Klebsiella subretinal infection. A retinal detachment occurred 1 month postoperatively and was successfully repaired. Visual acuity was 20/30 and has remained stable for 14 months.

CONCLUSION

Klebsiella endophthalmitis with subretinal abscess formation is a rare but devastating ocular condition. In the present case, prompt intervention with extensive retinectomy, complete abscess excision, and intravitreal antibiotic therapy resulted in unprecedented visual recovery.

A prospective search for ocular lesions in hospitalized patients with significant bacteremia

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence, risk factors, and prognostic value of ocular lesions in unselected patients with bacteremia. A total of 202 bacteremic patients, 101 nonbacteremic septic patients, and 90 nonseptic control patients were compared in a prospective, controlled, observational study. Ocular lesions related to bacteremia were found in 12% of the bacteremic group, 5% of the septic group, and 2% of the control group. Ocular lesions were significantly more frequent in the bacteremic patients than in the control patients (P=.007). The severity of the clinical condition and the presence of fungemia predict independently a higher risk of ocular lesions. Mortality rates among bacteremic patients with and without ocular lesions were, respectively, 32% and 8% (P<.01; OR, 3.99). The asymptomatic nature of most ocular lesions in patients with bloodstream infections and the impossibility of amelioration in most cases lead us to recommend ophthalmologic examination for bacteremic patients only when prognostic information is needed.

Enucleation

The three most common indications for enucleation are intraocular malignancy, trauma, and a blind, painful eye. Recommending enucleation is one of the most difficult therapeutic decisions in ophthalmology. In some cases of malignancy, cryotherapy, laser photocoagulation, diathermy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy may be viable alternatives to surgery. When surgery is chosen, evisceration or exenteration may be alternatives to enucleation. Once the decision is made to perform enucleation or evisceration, the surgeon must choose from several types of implants and wrapping materials. These devices can be synthetic, autologous, or eye-banked tissues. With certain implants, the surgeon must decide when and if to drill for subsequent peg placement. In this review, the authors discuss choices, techniques, complications, and patient consent and follow-up before, during, and after enucleation. Controversies and results of the Controlled Ocular Melanoma Study are summarized.