Clostridium septicum panophthalmitis with systemic complications

Abstract

A fulminant case of endophthalmitis due to Clostridium septicum is described. The patient presented with spontaneous gas gangrene panophthalmitis, with early visual loss and an air bubble in the anterior chamber. Death ensued, and necropsy revealed changes consistent with severe arterosclerotic cardiovascular disease, a relationship not uncommon in patients with Clostridium sepsis. This association as well as the his to pathology of the globe are discussed.