Endogenous endophtalmitis in a patient withStaphylococcus aureusbacteraemia

BACKGROUND Staphylococcus aureas bacteraemia can spread to cause endocartitis, spondylodiscitis or infection of vascular or joint prostheses. Endogenous endophtalmitis is a serious complication which may result in permanent visual loss of the affected eye. Treatment consists of intra-ocular injection of antibiotics or a vitrectomy. CASE DESCRIPTION A 79-year-old man attended the emergency department because of septic arthritis. Blood cultures were positive for a S. aureus bacteraemia. On the second day of admission he developed a blurred vision and he was diagnosed with an endophtalmitis. The patient was referred to an academic hospital for treatment with intra-ocular antibiotics. After treatment his vision improved again. CONCLUSION Visual complaints should be taken seriously when a patient has a proven S. aureus bacteraemia. Infectious disease consultation may accelerate early recognition, referral and treatment. When endophtalmitis is suspected, it is essential to refer the patient to a treatment centre where intra-ocular antibiotics can be administered.