Post-cataract extraction endophthalmitis caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis (coagulase-negative Staphylococci) typically presents with which TEMPORAL pattern?

• A Hours to 1 day after surgery (hyperacute)
• B 6 weeks to months after surgery (delayed/chronic)
• C 2–7 days after surgery (acute postoperative) ✓
• D 1–2 years after surgery (late-onset)

Explanation

Acute postoperative endophthalmitis typically presents 2–7 days (within the first week) after cataract surgery; the commonest causative organism is coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (especially S. epidermidis). Hyperacute (<24 h) suggests more virulent organisms (Pseudomonas, beta-haemolytic Streptococcus). Delayed/chronic endophthalmitis (weeks to months) is characterised by a white plaque in the capsular bag and is caused by Propionibacterium acnes (Cutibacterium acnes). Very late onset is rare and may be associated with bleb-related endophthalmitis.

Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.