Postoperative Hemorrhagic Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis Associated with Intravitreal Injection of Vancomycin

Abstract

Purpose: To present a case of hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis (HORV) associated with intravitreal injection of vancomycin after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Methods: Single case report. Results: A 67-year-old woman presented with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/400 in the left eye. For clinical suspicion of chronic endophthalmitis, empirical treatment was initiated with vancomycin and ceftazidime without clinical improvement. The patient was submitted to pars plana vitrectomy. During surgery rhegmatogenous retinal detachment was observed and treated. At the end of surgery, intravitreal vancomycin was injected. After 18 days BCVA was counting fingers and fundus examination showed diffuse retinal vascular sheathing, intraretinal hemorrhages, and ischemic macular whitening. The clinical diagnosis was compatible with HORV secondary to retinal toxicity due to intraocular vancomycin. Conclusions: This case illustrates the importance of including intravitreal vancomycin during PPV surgery on the list of potential causes when investigating a case of suspected hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis.

Keywords

• intravitreal injection; pars plana vitrectomy; vancomycin; vasculitis; corticosteroids