Concurrent Pseudomonas Periorbital Necrotizing Fasciitis and Endophthalmitis: A Case Report and Literature Review.

(1)

Background

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is an infection involving the superficial fascia and subcutaneous tissue. Endophthalmitis is an infection within the ocular ball. Herein we report a rare case of concurrent periorbital NF and endophthalmitis, caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA). We also conducted a literature review related to periorbital PA skin and soft-tissue infections. (2) Case presentation: A 62-year-old male had left upper eyelid swelling and redness; orbital cellulitis was diagnosed. During eyelid debridement, NF with the involvement of the upper Müller's muscle and levator muscle was noted. The infection soon progressed to scleral ulcers and endophthalmitis. The eye developed phthisis bulbi, despite treatment with intravitreal antibiotics. (3)

Conclusions

Immunocompromised individuals are more likely than immunocompetent hosts to be infected by PA. Although periorbital NF is uncommon due to the rich blood supply in the area, the possibility of PA infection should be considered in concurrent periorbital soft-tissue infection and endophthalmitis.