• Hao Wang, Yongye Chang, Yifan Zhang, Rong Yang, Huijun Shi, and Minglian Zhang.
• Department of TCM Ophthalmology, Hebei Eye Hospital, Hebei province, China.
• Medicine (Baltimore). 2023 Apr 21; 102 (16): e33585e33585.

RationaleEndogenous fungal endophthalmitis is a challenging condition. There are no universally accepted diagnostic or management protocols. We share a case of endogenous fungal endophthalmitis who was successfully treated, focusing on the diagnostic and treatment procedures.Patient ConcernsA 31-year-old female with a history of fungal vaginitis and tinea corporis presented with progressive visual decrease in both eyes after having an induced abortion. Her best corrected visual acuity at presentation was 20/1000 in her right eye and 20/250 in her left eye. Upon slit lamp examination, mild inflammatory reaction in the anterior chamber was found. Dilated fundus examination revealed a hazy view of the optic disc and posterior retina, and there was a whitish mass with "string and pearls" just in front of the macular region in each eye.DiagnosesBilateral fungal endogenous endophthalmitis was diagnosed empirically, which was confirmed later by deoxyribonucleic acid sequencing and culture of intraocular fluid.InterventionsOral itraconazole and intravitreal voriconazole were administered to the patient at first. The intraocular inflammation was partially responsive to the medication, yet the visual acuity persisted to deteriorate and the vitreous whitish masses became more prominent. Then vitrectomy procedures were carried out and oral itraconazle was switched to intravenous fluconazole. The antifungal treatment lasted for 8 weeks.OutcomesThe intraocular inflammation alleviated and visual acuity improved after vitrectomy. At the 9-month follow-up visit, the patient's best corrected visual acuity was 20/40 in the right eye and 20/30 in the left eye. There was no intraocular inflammatary reaction, and retinal scar was noticed in each eye.LessonEarly and correct diagnosis, coupled with prompt and aggressive treatment, is crucial for cases of fungal endogenous endophthalmitis. Deoxyribonucleic acid sequencing techniques can contribute to early diagnosis, while vitrectomy may be necessary when antifungal medication is insufficient in controlling the condition.Copyright © 2023 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

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