Mycotic infection of the capsular bag in postoperative endophthalmitis

A case of mycotic infection after uncomplicated extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of a posterior chamber modified C-loop intraocular lens (IOL) is reported. Severe postoperative intraocular inflammation, diagnosed by aqueous cultures as secondary to Staphylococcus aureus endophthalmitis, did not respond to antibiotic therapy. Despite IOL and capsular bag removal and further antibiotic treatment, the inflammation persisted and phthisis followed. Retrospective electron microscopic examination of the explanted material demonstrated the presence of abundant fungal elements in the capsular bag and spores on the IOL surface. Vitreous taps performed at the time of explantation were negative for bacteria and fungi, confirming the localized nature of the mycotic infection. To our knowledge this report represents the first observation of a mycotic infection confined to the capsular bag after cataract surgery with implantation of a posterior chamber IOL. © 1991, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. All rights reserved.