Atypical Presentation of Acute-Onset Endophthalmitis After Uncomplicated Pars Plana Vitrectomy

A 70-year-old woman presented with signs of acute-onset endophthalmitis within 24 hours of surgery, with retinal hemorrhages and vascular changes in the absence of pain or significant inflammation. She had undergone uncomplicated 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy for epiretinal membrane with presenting visual acuity of 20/40- and significant distortion. Vitreous culture revealed Staphylococcus epidermidis. Final visual acuity was no light perception with persistent pain, and the patient ultimately underwent enucleation. Although rarely, acute-onset postoperative endophthalmitis can present as retinal vasculitis with intraretinal hemorrhages and mild inflammation.