Endogenous Endophthalmitis Due to Klebsiella ozaenae

Abstract

Purpose: To report a case of endogenous endophthalmitis due to Klebsiella ozaenae, which is a rare causative organism of endophthalmitis. Case summary: A 61-year-old male who was undergoing chemotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma complained of sudden visual loss and ocular pain in his left eye for 2 days. On the first examination, the patient's visual acuity was counting fingers at 10 cm and the intraocular pressure was elevated to 29 mm Hg. Partial scleral rupture and choroidal prolapse were observed. Subretinal abscess was detected with increased echogenicity using ultrasonography. The patient complained of burning sensation on voiding and urinary frequency; subsequent urinalysis showed pyuria and bacteriuria. Intravitreal and systemic antibiotics were administered under the impression of endogenous endophthalmitis caused by urinary tract infection. Despite treatment, visual acuity decreased to no light perception in 4 days and intraocular pressure and pain was uncontrollable. Enucleation was performed and pus culture from the eye during surgery revealed Klebsiella ozaenae. Conclusions: Klebsiella ozaenae is a rare causative organism of endophthalmitis and shows a rapid progress and poor prognosis. Endogenous endophthalmitis must be highly suspected in patients with urinary tract infection as well as pyogenic liver abscess.