[Chronic endophthalmitis].

Abstract

Chronic endophthalmitis are intraocular infections, characterized by late onset and prolonged evolution. They are either of exogenous or endogenous origin and may be related to the penetration of "fastidious bacteria", mycoses or viruses. Diagnosis is based on specific techniques, including direct examination peroperatively, prolonged cultures on special medium and electron microscopic analysis. Treatment often combines diagnostic/therapeutic vitrectomy and intraocular injection of antibiotics. Their evolution is usually made of successive reactivations and explanting of the artificial lens is often necessary for a definitive remission in pseudophakic patients.