Endophthalmitis
Endophthalmitis
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
1. Can Endophthalmitis cause permanent blindness?
Yes, if not treated promptly, endophthalmitis can cause permanent vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of blindness.
2. How quickly do symptoms appear after surgery?
Symptoms of endophthalmitis usually appear within a few days to weeks after surgery or trauma, but in some cases, it can take longer.
3. Is surgery always required for treatment?
Not necessarily. Mild cases can sometimes be treated with antibiotics, but in severe cases, surgery such as a vitrectomy may be required to remove the infection.
What is Endophthalmitis?
Endophthalmitis is a severe inflammation of the inside of the eye, particularly affecting the aqueous or vitreous humor. It is most commonly caused by infections, and if left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preserving vision.
Causes of Endophthalmitis
Endophthalmitis typically results from infections introduced into the eye. Some of the common causes include:
- Post-Surgical Infection: This is the most common cause, especially after cataract surgery or other invasive eye surgeries.
- Injury (Trauma): A penetrating eye injury can introduce bacteria or fungi, leading to infection.
- Infections Spread from Other Parts of the Body: In some rare cases, infections can spread to the eye through the bloodstream.
- Endogenous Endophthalmitis: A rare type that occurs when an infection from another part of the body spreads to the eye.
Types of Endophthalmitis
There are two main types of endophthalmitis:
- Exogenous Endophthalmitis: This occurs when an external event (such as surgery, trauma, or eye injection) introduces bacteria or fungi into the eye. It is the most common type.
- Endogenous Endophthalmitis: This rare form is caused by infections elsewhere in the body that spread to the eye via the bloodstream.
Symptoms of Endophthalmitis
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention:
- Severe eye pain
- Sudden decrease in vision
- Redness of the eye
- Swelling of the eyelids
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Pus or discharge from the eye
These symptoms typically appear within a few days to weeks after surgery or injury. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in outcomes.
How is Endophthalmitis Diagnosed?
Dr. Suraj Munjal uses advanced diagnostic tools to confirm the presence of endophthalmitis. The diagnosis process includes:
- Eye Examination: A thorough visual inspection of the eye using specialized equipment.
- Ultrasound: This can help detect abnormalities within the eye, particularly in the vitreous humor.
- Vitreal or Aqueous Sampling: In some cases, a sample of the vitreous or aqueous humor is taken and tested to identify the infection-causing organisms.
Treatment of Endophthalmitis
Prompt treatment is essential to prevent irreversible damage to your vision. Depending on the type and severity, treatment options may include:
- Intravitreal Antibiotics: These are injected directly into the eye to fight the infection.
- Vitrectomy: In some cases, surgery may be required to remove infected vitreous tissue and prevent the spread of the infection.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: Steroid treatments may be used to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Hospitalization: Severe cases may require admission to a hospital for intensive treatment and monitoring.
Cost of Treatment and Stay in India
India has become a hub for high-quality medical care at an affordable cost, and Dr. Suraj Munjal’s center is no exception. The cost of endophthalmitis treatment depends on the severity and the type of treatment required (medications or surgery). Typically, the cost in India is significantly lower than in many Western countries, while maintaining world-class standards.