Purpose: To study the efficacy of intravitreal pefloxacin in the management of suspected bacterial endophthalmitis.
Methods: Twenty eyes with suspected postoperative bacterial endophthalmitis were given an intravitreal injection of pefloxacin (200 microg in 0.1 mL). If required the injection was repeated after 24 h. The main parameters evaluated were visual acuity, response to intravitreal therapy and any complications due to intravitreal pefloxacin.
Results: Fourteen eyes (70%) responded to intravitreal pefloxacin therapy alone, while an additional pars plana vitrectomy was required in six eyes (30%). Nineteen eyes retained a visual acuity of 6/60 or better at 3 months after the initiation of therapy. A retinal detachment developed in one of the eyes which received intravitreal therapy.
Conclusions: Intravitreal pefloxacin may be a useful aternative therapy in bacteria endophthalmitis.