Endophthalmitis and Panophthalmitis are serious conditions affecting the eye, usually resulting from infections or penetrating injuries. Endophthalmitis is an inflammation involving one or more of the layers of the eye and panophthalmitis is an inflammation involving all layers of the eye. Both conditions are serious, however panophthalmitis is more severe, and inflammation (and infection) often spreads to the area surrounding the affected eye.

Endophthalmitis

Causes of endophthalmitis and panophthalmitis include penetrating injuries of the eye (often from bite wounds), proptosis of the globe (dislocation of the eyeball), uveitis and retinitis. Ocular problems associated with canine distemper and hepatitis can also result in endophthalmitis and panophthalmitis. The most common causes are penetrating and nonpenetrating wounds to the eye and inflammation secondary to corneal ulceration and injury.

Pain, conjuctivitis, corneal cloudiness, decreased pupil size, and swelling are characteristic symptoms. In both conditions, blindness often results.

Severe infections resulting from endophthalmitis and panophthalmitis can spread to the brain, causing meningitis and encephalitis. Treatment is aimed at eliminating the infection.

Endophthalmitis - 2 Weeks After Aggressive Medical Therapy