Endogenous <i>Fusarium</i> Endophthalmitis after Bone Marrow Transplant: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Purpose: We aim to present a case of disseminated fusariosis that occurred in the setting of immunosuppression and presented with bilateral endogenous endophthalmitis, along with a literature review of Fusarium endophthalmitis, highlighting management strategies. Observation: A 70-year-old male with acute myeloid leukemia who had recently undergone a bone marrow transplant noted bilateral floaters and decreased vision. He was found to have bilateral Fusarium endophthalmitis, with subsequent evidence of fungemia and fusariosis in his skin and joints. Despite aggressive local and systemic treatment, he succumbed to the disease. Endophthalmitis was initially stabilized with pars plana vitrectomy and intravitreal amphotericin and voriconazole until the patient transitioned to comfort measures. A review of 31 cases demonstrates that outcomes are poor and that the disease must be treated aggressively, often both systemically and surgically. Conclusion: This case highlights the recalcitrance of Fusarium bacteremia and Fusarium endophthalmitis.

Keywords

• endophthalmitis
• fungemia
• <i>Fusarium</i>
• antifungal