Culture-Proven Candida Albicans Endogenous Endophthalmitis in a Patient with Onychomycosis

ABSTRACT

Purpose: To report a case of Candida albicans endogenous endophthalmitis in an immunocompetent patient with onychomycosis.

Methods: Retrospective case report.

Results: A 40-year-old man with onychomycosis presented with C. albicans subretinal abscess in the left eye. Systemic and intravitreal injections did not prevent further progression of the infection. The patient underwent pars plana vitrectomy. One month after surgery, the intraocular inflammation gradually subsided. However, his visual acuity stayed at counting fingers as a result of macular scarring.

Conclusion: The aim of this case presentation is to emphasize that endogenous fungal endophthalmitis can be seen in an immunocompetent patient. The use of systemic steroids in the past was the main reason for the progression of the disease in this case. In these situations, when the clinical findings suggest a fungal etiology, it should keep in mind that endogenous candida endophthalmitis can be a result of fungal infections from distant sites such as the toenails and systemic steroids should not be started before definite diagnosis.