Endophthalmitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Endophthalmitis?
An ophthalmologist, an eye doctor who can do eye surgery, treats endophthalmitis. A retina specialist, an eye doctor focused on the back of the eye, is often involved too. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is endophthalmitis?
Endophthalmitis is swelling inside the eyeball. It is a serious condition. It is usually caused by an infection.
The most common type starts soon after eye surgery. This is called acute. Another type, called chronic, shows up several weeks or months after surgery.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- Decreased vision.
- Eye pain.
- Redness of the eye.
- Swelling of the eyelids.
- Trouble with bright light.
- Discharge from the eye.
Symptoms after eye surgery often start within 1 to 2 weeks, and often at 3 to 5 days. Some people with endophthalmitis do not have pain. Slow-starting cases may cause little or no pain.
Causes and who gets it
Most cases are caused by an infection with bacteria or a fungus. It very often happens as a rare complication of cataract surgery or other eye surgery. It can also follow an injury to the eye or an injection of medicine into the eye.
After surgery, a wound that leaks raises the risk. After an injury, the risk is higher if an object stays in the eye. It is also higher if the person is not seen for more than 24 hours.
Germs can also reach the eye from an infection elsewhere in the body. This is called endogenous endophthalmitis. Sources can include a tooth abscess, pneumonia, or a urinary tract infection. A weak immune system also raises the risk.
How doctors diagnose it
An eye doctor looks for eye swelling that is more than expected after surgery. To find the germ, the doctor usually takes a sample of fluid from inside the eye. An ultrasound, which uses sound waves to make a picture of the eye, may be done if swelling or cloudiness blocks the view of the back of the eye.
Treatment
Early treatment with medicine that kills germs is critical. Treatment depends on how well you can see.
- If vision is very poor, doctors recommend a vitrectomy. This is surgery that clears germs and swelling from inside the eye.
- If vision is better, doctors inject antibiotics into the eye with a needle.
Antibiotics taken by mouth or through a vein usually work too slowly to be used alone. Medicine put inside the eye can sometimes harm parts of the eye.
When to see a doctor
Go to the emergency room right away, or call 911, if you have eye pain, redness, swelling, or less vision after eye surgery, an eye injury, or an eye injection. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical, so do not wait if these symptoms appear. Delaying treatment can have rapid and devastating results.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. This kind of doctor can help you act fast if eye symptoms start and can send you to an eye doctor. They can also help with follow-up care and with other health problems.
Common questions
Is endophthalmitis an emergency?
Yes, endophthalmitis needs treatment right away. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical, and delay can have rapid and devastating results.
Can endophthalmitis happen after cataract surgery?
Yes, but it is rare. It very often occurs as a rare complication of cataract or other eye surgery.
Does endophthalmitis always need surgery?
No. Treatment depends on how well you can see. Doctors recommend a vitrectomy, a surgery that clears the inside of the eye, when vision is very poor. With better vision, doctors inject antibiotics into the eye.
What are the symptoms of endophthalmitis?
The symptoms include less vision, eye pain, and redness. Swelling of the eyelids can also happen.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
