Candidemia and endophthalmitis are serious conditions often linked to fungal infections, particularly caused by Candida species.

Candidemia: This is a bloodstream infection caused by Candida yeast. It’s a major concern in hospitalized patients, especially those with compromised immune systems, central venous catheters, or recent surgery. Symptoms include fever, chills, and sepsis-like signs, but they can be nonspecific. Diagnosis is confirmed via blood cultures. Treatment typically involves antifungal agents like echinocandins (e.g., caspofungin), fluconazole, or amphotericin B, depending on the species and patient factors. Mortality rates range from 20-40% despite treatment.

Endophthalmitis: This is an inflammation of the intraocular cavities, often due to infection. When related to candidemia, it’s called endogenous Candida endophthalmitis, where the fungus spreads hematogenously to the eye. Symptoms include eye pain, blurred vision, floaters, or vision loss. Fundoscopic exams may reveal chorioretinal lesions or vitritis. Diagnosis involves vitreous sampling and culture. Treatment requires systemic antifungals (as for candidemia) and sometimes intravitreal antifungals (e.g., voriconazole or amphotericin B) or vitrectomy in severe cases. Early treatment is critical to preserve vision.

Connection: Candidemia can seed infections to distant sites like the eyes, leading to endophthalmitis. Up to 10-15% of candidemia cases may involve ocular complications, though not all progress to severe endophthalmitis. Routine ophthalmologic screening is often recommended for candidemia patients to catch early eye involvement.