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==Overview==
==Overview==
Blebitis is the inflammation of the ocular [[bleb]] as a result of [[bacterial]] infection. It is a possible complication of a [[trabeculectomy]] performed to treat [[glaucoma]]. The causative pathogens are usually ''[[Staphylococcus]]'' or ''[[Streptococcus]]'' [[bacteria]]. [[Trabulectomy]] creates a point of possible infiltration in the [[bleb]]; the prolonged use of [[anti-metabolites]] following [[trabeculectomy]] increases the risk of [[bleb]] infection via [[cyst]] formation, [[epithelial]] wall thinning and erosion, and [[goblet cell]] depletion and decreased [[mucin]] production. [[Membrane]] deterioration, in conjunction with an inferior location for the [[bleb]], creates a flow pathway for [[bacterial]] infiltration through the [[bleb]]'s aqueous humor. Symptoms of blebitis include ocular pain, [[photophobia]] and loss of [[vision]], intraocular pressure, and fluid discharge. Physical examination may reveal [[erythema]] and [[hyperaemia]] of the affected eye, as well as thinning and whitening of the [[bleb]]. The presence of [[maculopathy|maculopathic]] [[pus|purulent]] infiltrate can also be found upon physical exam. The mainstays of therapy for blebitis are fortified topical [[antimicrobial]] and [[antibacterial]] agents, as well as topical [[corticosteroids]]. With treatment, the prognosis for blebitis is good. Without treatment, blebitis can result in [[bleb-related endopthalmitis]]; leading to a much worse prognosis, including permanent [[vision loss]] and death. Blebitis is very rare; the incidence in the United States was estimated to be 550 per 100,000 individuals (.55%) from 2007-2011.  
Blebitis is the inflammation of the ocular [[bleb]] as a result of [[bacterial]] infection. It is a possible complication of a [[trabeculectomy]] performed to treat [[glaucoma]]. The causative pathogens are usually ''[[Staphylococcus]]'' or ''[[Streptococcus]]'' [[bacteria]]. [[Trabulectomy]] creates a point of possible infiltration in the [[bleb]]; the prolonged use of [[anti-metabolites]] following [[trabeculectomy]] increases the risk of [[bleb]] infection via [[cyst]] formation, [[epithelial]] wall thinning and erosion, and [[goblet cell]] depletion and decreased [[mucin]] production. [[Membrane]] deterioration, in conjunction with an inferior location for the [[bleb]], creates a flow pathway for [[bacterial]] infiltration through the [[bleb]]'s [[aqueous humor]]. Symptoms of blebitis include ocular pain, [[photophobia]] and loss of [[vision]], intraocular pressure, and fluid discharge. Physical examination may reveal [[erythema]] and [[hyperemia]] of the affected eye, as well as thinning and whitening of the [[bleb]]. The presence of [[maculopathy|maculopathic]] [[pus|purulent]] infiltrate can also be found upon physical exam. The mainstays of therapy for blebitis are fortified topical [[antimicrobial]] and [[antibacterial]] agents, as well as topical [[corticosteroids]]. With treatment, the prognosis for blebitis is good. Without treatment, blebitis can result in [[Bleb-related endophthalmitis|bleb-related endophthalmitis]], leading to a much worse prognosis, including permanent [[vision loss]] and death. Blebitis is very rare; the incidence in the United States was estimated to be 550 per 100,000 individuals (.55%) from 2007-2011.


==Historical Perspective==
==Historical Perspective==
*Blebitis was officially identified by Dr. R.H. Brown in 1994 to classify bleb-infection not associated with the [[vitreous]].<ref name="pmid8285894">{{cite journal |vauthors=Brown RH, Yang LH, Walker SD, Lynch MG, Martinez LA, Wilson LA |title=Treatment of bleb infection after glaucoma surgery |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=112 |issue=1 |pages=57–61 |year=1994 |pmid=8285894 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
Blebitis was officially identified by Dr. R.H. Brown in 1994 to classify [[bleb]]-infection not associated with the [[vitreous]].<ref name="pmid8285894">{{cite journal |vauthors=Brown RH, Yang LH, Walker SD, Lynch MG, Martinez LA, Wilson LA |title=Treatment of bleb infection after glaucoma surgery |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=112 |issue=1 |pages=57–61 |year=1994 |pmid=8285894 |doi= |url=}}</ref>


==Classification==
==Classification==
*There is no diagnostic classification schema for blebitis.
There is no diagnostic classification schema for blebitis. However, blebitis is considered Stage I of the bleb-related infection classification system.<ref name="pmid20932582">{{cite journal| author=Yamamoto T, Kuwayama Y, Collaborative Bleb-related Infection Incidence and Treatment Study Group| title=Interim clinical outcomes in the collaborative bleb-related infection incidence and treatment study. | journal=Ophthalmology | year= 2011 | volume= 118 | issue= 3 | pages= 453-8 | pmid=20932582 | doi=10.1016/j.ophtha.2010.07.002 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=20932582  }} </ref><ref name="pmid9559501">{{cite journal| author=Greenfield DS| title=Bleb-related ocular infection. | journal=J Glaucoma | year= 1998 | volume= 7 | issue= 2 | pages= 132-6 | pmid=9559501 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=9559501  }} </ref><ref name="pmid9763136">{{cite journal| author=Azuara-Blanco A, Katz LJ| title=Dysfunctional filtering blebs. | journal=Surv Ophthalmol | year= 1998 | volume= 43 | issue= 2 | pages= 93-126 | pmid=9763136 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=9763136  }} </ref><ref name="yamamoto">{{cite journal| author=Yamamoto T| title:Bleb-related infection: Clinical features and management. | journal= Taiwan J of Ophthalmology | year=2012 | volume=2 | issue=1 | pages=2-5 | url=http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211505611000342 }}</ref>
 
===Bleb-related Infection Classification===
{| style="border: 0px; font-size: 90%; margin: 3px;" align=center
 
|-
 
! style="background: #4479BA; width: 120px;" | {{fontcolor|#FFF|Stage}}
 
! style="background: #4479BA; width: 120px;" | {{fontcolor|#FFF|Description}}
 
|- align=center
 
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #DCDCDC;" | Stage I
 
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #F5F5F5;" | Blebitis - infection confined to the bleb itself
 
|- align=center
 
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #DCDCDC;" | Stage II
 
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #F5F5F5;" | [[Bleb-related endophthalmitis]] mainly involving the [[anterior chamber]]
 
|- align=center
 
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #DCDCDC;" | Stage IIIa
 
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #F5F5F5;" | [[Bleb-related endophthalmitis]] with mild [[vitreous]] involvement
 
|- align=center
 
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #DCDCDC;" | Stage IIIb
 
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #F5F5F5;" | [[Bleb-related endophthalmitis]] with marked [[vitreous]] involvement
 
|}


==Pathophysiology==
==Pathophysiology==
===Pathogenesis===
===Pathogenesis===
*The pathogenesis of blebitis is characterized by the infiltration of ''[[staphylococcus]]'' and ''[[streptococcus]]'' [[bacteria]] into the [[bleb]] following [[trabeculectomy]].<ref name="pmid22011488">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ramakrishnan R, Bharathi MJ, Maheshwari D, Mohideen PM, Khurana M, Shivakumar C |title=Etiology and epidemiological analysis of glaucoma-filtering bleb infections in a tertiary eye care hospital in South India |journal=Indian J Ophthalmol |volume=59 |issue=6 |pages=445–53 |year=2011 |pmid=22011488 |pmc=3214414 |doi=10.4103/0301-4738.86311 |url=}}</ref>
The pathogenesis of blebitis is characterized by the infiltration of ''[[staphylococcus]]'' and ''[[streptococcus]]'' [[bacteria]] into the [[bleb]] following [[trabeculectomy]].<ref name="pmid22011488">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ramakrishnan R, Bharathi MJ, Maheshwari D, Mohideen PM, Khurana M, Shivakumar C |title=Etiology and epidemiological analysis of glaucoma-filtering bleb infections in a tertiary eye care hospital in South India |journal=Indian J Ophthalmol |volume=59 |issue=6 |pages=445–53 |year=2011 |pmid=22011488 |pmc=3214414 |doi=10.4103/0301-4738.86311 |url=}}</ref> The removal of the [[trabecula]] and adjacent structures creates a point of infiltration for pathogenic [[bacteria]].<ref name="pmid23246272">{{cite journal |vauthors=Zahid S, Musch DC, Niziol LM, Lichter PR |title=Risk of endophthalmitis and other long-term complications of trabeculectomy in the Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study (CIGTS) |journal=Am. J. Ophthalmol. |volume=155 |issue=4 |pages=674–680, 680.e1 |year=2013 |pmid=23246272 |pmc=3608803 |doi=10.1016/j.ajo.2012.10.017 |url=}}</ref> The prolonged use of [[antimetabolite|anti-metabolites]] following [[trabeculectomy]] increases the risk of [[bleb]] infection. [[Anti-metabolite]] drug use results in [[epithelial]] thinning, which heightens the risk of infiltration.<ref name="pmid14597529">{{cite journal |vauthors=Wells AP, Cordeiro MF, Bunce C, Khaw PT |title=Cystic bleb formation and related complications in limbus- versus fornix-based conjunctival flaps in pediatric and young adult trabeculectomy with mitomycin C |journal=Ophthalmology |volume=110 |issue=11 |pages=2192–7 |year=2003 |pmid=14597529 |doi=10.1016/S0161-6420(03)00800-5 |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid12084758">{{cite journal |vauthors=Matsuo H, Tomita G, Araie M, Suzuki Y, Kaji Y, Obata H, Tanaka S |title=Histopathological findings in filtering blebs with recurrent blebitis |journal=Br J Ophthalmol |volume=86 |issue=7 |pages=827 |year=2002 |pmid=12084758 |pmc=1771211 |doi= |url=}}</ref>.
**The removal of the [[trabecula]] and adjacent structures creates a point of infiltration for pathogenic [[bacteria]].<ref name="pmid23246272">{{cite journal |vauthors=Zahid S, Musch DC, Niziol LM, Lichter PR |title=Risk of endophthalmitis and other long-term complications of trabeculectomy in the Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study (CIGTS) |journal=Am. J. Ophthalmol. |volume=155 |issue=4 |pages=674–680, 680.e1 |year=2013 |pmid=23246272 |pmc=3608803 |doi=10.1016/j.ajo.2012.10.017 |url=}}</ref>
 
**The prolonged use of [[antimetabolite|anti-metabolites]] following [[trabeculectomy]] increases the risk of [[bleb]] infection.<ref name="pmid14597529">{{cite journal |vauthors=Wells AP, Cordeiro MF, Bunce C, Khaw PT |title=Cystic bleb formation and related complications in limbus- versus fornix-based conjunctival flaps in pediatric and young adult trabeculectomy with mitomycin C |journal=Ophthalmology |volume=110 |issue=11 |pages=2192–7 |year=2003 |pmid=14597529 |doi=10.1016/S0161-6420(03)00800-5 |url=}}</ref>
Additional pathogenic factors include:
***A [[cyst|cystic]] [[bleb]] is formed with greater predisposition to infection.
*Post-operative [[goblet cell]] depletion decreases the amount of protective [[mucin]].
***[[Epithelial]] thinning occurs following [[anti-metabolite]] therapy and heightening the risk of infiltration.<ref name="pmid12084758">{{cite journal |vauthors=Matsuo H, Tomita G, Araie M, Suzuki Y, Kaji Y, Obata H, Tanaka S |title=Histopathological findings in filtering blebs with recurrent blebitis |journal=Br J Ophthalmol |volume=86 |issue=7 |pages=827 |year=2002 |pmid=12084758 |pmc=1771211 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
*Inferior placement of the [[bleb]] heightens the risk of infection by the increased risk of leakage, providing a flow pathway for pathogenic [[bacteria]] to travel from the [[lacrimal lake]] to the bleb<ref name="pmid8602774">{{cite journal |vauthors=Caronia RM, Liebmann JM, Friedman R, Cohen H, Ritch R |title=Trabeculectomy at the inferior limbus |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=114 |issue=4 |pages=387–91 |year=1996 |pmid=8602774 |doi= |url=}}</ref>.
***[[Goblet cell]] depletion decreases the amount of protective [[mucin]].
**Lack of protection from the [[eyelid]] for inferior [[bleb]] placements contributes to infection risk.
**Inferior placement of the [[bleb]] heightens the risk of infection by the increased risk of leakage, providing a flow pathway for pathogenic [[bacteria]] to travel from the [[lacrimal lake]] to the bleb.<ref name="pmid8602774">{{cite journal |vauthors=Caronia RM, Liebmann JM, Friedman R, Cohen H, Ritch R |title=Trabeculectomy at the inferior limbus |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=114 |issue=4 |pages=387–91 |year=1996 |pmid=8602774 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
 
***Lack of protection from the [[eyelid]] for inferior bleb placements contributes to infection risk.
===Gross Pathology===
On gross pathology, [[maculopathy|maculopathic]] [[pus|purulent]] infiltrate, [[edema|edematous]] [[erythema]], [[hyperaemia]] and [[hypopyon]] are characteristics of blebitis.<ref name="pmid12084758">{{cite journal |vauthors=Matsuo H, Tomita G, Araie M, Suzuki Y, Kaji Y, Obata H, Tanaka S |title=Histopathological findings in filtering blebs with recurrent blebitis |journal=Br J Ophthalmol |volume=86 |issue=7 |pages=827 |year=2002 |pmid=12084758 |pmc=1771211 |doi= |url=}}</ref>


===Gross pathology===
===Microscopic Pathology===
*On gross pathology, [[maculopathy|maculopathic]] [[pus|purulent]] infiltrate, [[edema|edematous]] [[erythema]], [[hyperaemia]] and [[hypopyon]] are characteristics of blebitis.<ref name="pmid12084758">{{cite journal |vauthors=Matsuo H, Tomita G, Araie M, Suzuki Y, Kaji Y, Obata H, Tanaka S |title=Histopathological findings in filtering blebs with recurrent blebitis |journal=Br J Ophthalmol |volume=86 |issue=7 |pages=827 |year=2002 |pmid=12084758 |pmc=1771211 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
On microscopic histopathological analysis, [[goblet cell]]-depletion and [[epithelial]] thinning are characteristic of blebitis.<ref name="pmid19920531">{{cite journal |vauthors=Mietz H, Brunner R, Addicks K, Krieglstein GK |title=Histopathology of an avascular filtering bleb after trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=2 |issue=4 |pages=266–70 |year=1993 |pmid=19920531 |doi= |url=}}</ref> Observation of the basement layer of [[conjunctival]] [[epithelial]] cells may demonstrate thinning, missing segments, or total absence.
*On microscopic histopathological analysis, [[goblet cell]]-depletion and [[epithelial]] thinning are characteristics of blebitis.<ref name="pmid19920531">{{cite journal |vauthors=Mietz H, Brunner R, Addicks K, Krieglstein GK |title=Histopathology of an avascular filtering bleb after trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=2 |issue=4 |pages=266–70 |year=1993 |pmid=19920531 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
**Observation of the basement layer of [[conjunctival]] [[epithelial]] [[cells]] will show potential thinning, missing sections, or total absence.


==Causes==
==Causes==
*Blebitis may be caused by [[bacterial]] infection, predominantly ''[[Staphylococcus aureus]]'' and strains of ''[[Streptococcus]]''.<ref name="pmid24020653">{{cite journal |vauthors=Wallin Ö, Al-ahramy AM, Lundström M, Montan P |title=Endophthalmitis and severe blebitis following trabeculectomy. Epidemiology and risk factors; a single-centre retrospective study |journal=Acta Ophthalmol |volume=92 |issue=5 |pages=426–31 |year=2014 |pmid=24020653 |doi=10.1111/aos.12257 |url=}}</ref>
Blebitis may be caused by [[bacterial]] infection, predominantly ''[[Staphylococcus spp.]]'' and ''[[Streptococcus spp.]]''<ref name="yamamoto">{{cite journal| author=Yamamoto T| title:Bleb-related infection: Clinical features and management. | journal= Taiwan J of Ophthalmology | year=2012 | volume=2 | issue=1 | pages=2-5 | url=http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211505611000342 }}</ref><ref name="pmid24020653">{{cite journal |vauthors=Wallin Ö, Al-ahramy AM, Lundström M, Montan P |title=Endophthalmitis and severe blebitis following trabeculectomy. Epidemiology and risk factors; a single-centre retrospective study |journal=Acta Ophthalmol |volume=92 |issue=5 |pages=426–31 |year=2014 |pmid=24020653 |doi=10.1111/aos.12257 |url=}}</ref> <ref name="pmid12084758">{{cite journal |vauthors=Matsuo H, Tomita G, Araie M, Suzuki Y, Kaji Y, Obata H, Tanaka S |title=Histopathological findings in filtering blebs with recurrent blebitis |journal=Br J Ophthalmol |volume=86 |issue=7 |pages=827 |year=2002 |pmid=12084758 |pmc=1771211 |doi= |url=}}</ref> Less commonly,''[[Corynebacterium]]'', ''[[Pseudomonas aeruginosa]]'', and ''[[Nocardia]]'' have been isolated in cases of blebitis.<ref name="pmid25826645">{{cite journal| author=Ifantides C, Batlle OR, Mushatt D, Ayyala RS| title=Nocardia exalbida blebitis: a case report. | journal=J Glaucoma | year= 2015 | volume= 24 | issue= 4 | pages= e19-21 | pmid=25826645 | doi=10.1097/IJG.0b013e3182a07574 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25826645  }} </ref><ref name="pmid25370403">{{cite journal| author=Bharathi S, Raman GV, Mohan DM, Krishnan A| title=An unusual presentation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa blebitis following combined surgery. | journal=Indian J Ophthalmol | year= 2014 | volume= 62 | issue= 9 | pages= 958-60 | pmid=25370403 | doi=10.4103/0301-4738.143947 | pmc=4244747 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25370403  }} </ref>
*The occular [[bleb]]'s predisposition to infection occurs due to exposure and vulnerability following a [[trabeculectomy]] to treat [[glaucoma]].<ref name="pmid12084758">{{cite journal |vauthors=Matsuo H, Tomita G, Araie M, Suzuki Y, Kaji Y, Obata H, Tanaka S |title=Histopathological findings in filtering blebs with recurrent blebitis |journal=Br J Ophthalmol |volume=86 |issue=7 |pages=827 |year=2002 |pmid=12084758 |pmc=1771211 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
**Blebitis is a rare complication of [[trabeculectomy]].


==Differentiating Blebitis from Other Diseases==
==Differentiating Blebitis from Other Diseases==
*Blebitis must be differentiated from other diseases that cause ocular [[erythema]] and [[hyperaemia]], as well as pain, pressure, [[loss of vision]], and [[photophobia]].<ref name="pmid11558820">{{cite journal |vauthors=Reynolds AC, Skuta GL, Monlux R, Johnson J |title=Management of blebitis by members of the American Glaucoma Society: a survey |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=10 |issue=4 |pages=340–7 |year=2001 |pmid=11558820 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
Blebitis must be differentiated from other diseases that cause ocular [[erythema]] and [[hyperaemia]], as well as pain, pressure, [[loss of vision]], and [[photophobia]].<ref name="pmid11558820">{{cite journal |vauthors=Reynolds AC, Skuta GL, Monlux R, Johnson J |title=Management of blebitis by members of the American Glaucoma Society: a survey |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=10 |issue=4 |pages=340–7 |year=2001 |pmid=11558820 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
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| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #DCDCDC;" | '''Bleb-associated [[endophthalmitis]]'''
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #DCDCDC;" | '''[[Bleb-related endophthalmitis]]'''
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #F5F5F5;" | An ocular disease that results from the spread of bleb-infection extends beyond the [[anterior chamber]]. Presents with similar symptoms to blebitis, including ocular pain, [[photophobia]], [[hyperaemia]], and bleb-leakage. Primarily Differentiates from blebitis by the presence of infection and [[inflammation]] in the [[vitreous]].  There is also increased [[conjunctivitis]] in bleb-associated [[endophthalmitis]]. Symptoms are more severe, with near-total [[vision loss]] common in the absence of treatment. Primarily caused by ''[[Streptococcus]]'' infection; aggressive intravitreal [[vancomycin]] and broad spectrum antibiotics are necessary to prevent vision morbidity.<ref name="pmid20142955">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ba'arah BT, Smiddy WE |title=Bleb-related Endophthalmitis: Clinical Presentation, Isolates, Treatment and Visual Outcome of Culture-proven Cases |journal=Middle East Afr J Ophthalmol |volume=16 |issue=1 |pages=20–4 |year=2009 |pmid=20142955 |pmc=2813581 |doi=10.4103/0974-9233.48862 |url=}}</ref>   
| style="padding: 5px 5px; background: #F5F5F5;" | An ocular disease that results from the spread of bleb-infection extends beyond the [[anterior chamber]]. Presents with similar symptoms to blebitis, including ocular pain, [[photophobia]], [[hyperaemia]], and bleb-leakage. Primarily Differentiates from blebitis by the presence of infection and [[inflammation]] in the [[vitreous]].  There is also increased [[conjunctivitis]] in [[Bleb-related endophthalmitis|bleb-related endophthalmitis]]. Symptoms are more severe, with near-total [[vision loss]] common in the absence of treatment. Primarily caused by ''[[Streptococcus]]'' infection; aggressive intravitreal [[vancomycin]] and broad spectrum antibiotics are necessary to prevent vision morbidity.<ref name="pmid20142955">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ba'arah BT, Smiddy WE |title=Bleb-related Endophthalmitis: Clinical Presentation, Isolates, Treatment and Visual Outcome of Culture-proven Cases |journal=Middle East Afr J Ophthalmol |volume=16 |issue=1 |pages=20–4 |year=2009 |pmid=20142955 |pmc=2813581 |doi=10.4103/0974-9233.48862 |url=}}</ref>   
|}
|}


==Epidemiology and Demographics==
==Epidemiology and Demographics==
*From 2007-2011, the incidence of blebitis in the United States was approximately 550 per 100,000 individuals.<ref name="pmid25709395">{{cite journal |vauthors=Vaziri K, Kishor K, Schwartz SG, Maharaj AS, Moshfeghi DM, Moshfeghi AA, Flynn HW |title=Incidence of bleb-associated endophthalmitis in the United States |journal=Clin Ophthalmol |volume=9 |issue= |pages=317–22 |year=2015 |pmid=25709395 |pmc=4334336 |doi=10.2147/OPTH.S75286 |url=}}</ref>
From 2007-2011, the incidence of blebitis in the United States was approximately 550 per 100,000 individuals.<ref name="pmid25709395">{{cite journal |vauthors=Vaziri K, Kishor K, Schwartz SG, Maharaj AS, Moshfeghi DM, Moshfeghi AA, Flynn HW |title=Incidence of bleb-associated endophthalmitis in the United States |journal=Clin Ophthalmol |volume=9 |issue= |pages=317–22 |year=2015 |pmid=25709395 |pmc=4334336 |doi=10.2147/OPTH.S75286 |url=}}</ref>


===Age===
===Age===
*Blebitis patients are usually younger, less than 40 years old.<ref name="urlFacts About Glaucoma | National Eye Institute">{{cite web |url=https://nei.nih.gov/health/glaucoma/glaucoma_facts |title=Facts About Glaucoma &#124; National Eye Institute |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref>
Blebitis patients are usually less than 40 years old.<ref name="urlFacts About Glaucoma | National Eye Institute">{{cite web |url=https://nei.nih.gov/health/glaucoma/glaucoma_facts |title=Facts About Glaucoma &#124; National Eye Institute |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref> Blebitis is also commonly seen in African American patients older than 40 years old and Mexican Americans older than 60 years old, due to the higher incidence of the precursory [[glaucoma]] surgery.
*Blebitis is also commonly seen in African American patients older than 40 years old and Mexican Americans older than 60 years old, due to the higher rates of incidence of the precursory [[glaucoma]].


===Gender===
===Gender===
*Males are more commonly affected with blebitis than females.<ref name="pmid10721955">{{cite journal |vauthors=Soltau JB, Rothman RF, Budenz DL, Greenfield DS, Feuer W, Liebmann JM, Ritch R |title=Risk factors for glaucoma filtering bleb infections |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=118 |issue=3 |pages=338–42 |year=2000 |pmid=10721955 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
Males are more commonly affected with blebitis than females.<ref name="pmid10721955">{{cite journal |vauthors=Soltau JB, Rothman RF, Budenz DL, Greenfield DS, Feuer W, Liebmann JM, Ritch R |title=Risk factors for glaucoma filtering bleb infections |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=118 |issue=3 |pages=338–42 |year=2000 |pmid=10721955 |doi= |url=}}</ref>


===Race===
===Race===
*African-Americans are more commonly affected with blebitis than other races.<ref name="pmid10721955">{{cite journal |vauthors=Soltau JB, Rothman RF, Budenz DL, Greenfield DS, Feuer W, Liebmann JM, Ritch R |title=Risk factors for glaucoma filtering bleb infections |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=118 |issue=3 |pages=338–42 |year=2000 |pmid=10721955 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
African-Americans are more commonly affected with blebitis than other races.<ref name="pmid10721955">{{cite journal |vauthors=Soltau JB, Rothman RF, Budenz DL, Greenfield DS, Feuer W, Liebmann JM, Ritch R |title=Risk factors for glaucoma filtering bleb infections |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=118 |issue=3 |pages=338–42 |year=2000 |pmid=10721955 |doi= |url=}}</ref> Inuit are more prone to blebitis due to the higher incidence of [[glaucoma]] in that population.<ref name="pmid22687296">{{cite journal |vauthors=Cook C, Foster P |title=Epidemiology of glaucoma: what's new? |journal=Can. J. Ophthalmol. |volume=47 |issue=3 |pages=223–6 |year=2012 |pmid=22687296 |doi=10.1016/j.jcjo.2012.02.003 |url=}}</ref>
*Inuit are more prone to blebitis due to the higher incidence of [[glaucoma]].<ref name="pmid22687296">{{cite journal |vauthors=Cook C, Foster P |title=Epidemiology of glaucoma: what's new? |journal=Can. J. Ophthalmol. |volume=47 |issue=3 |pages=223–6 |year=2012 |pmid=22687296 |doi=10.1016/j.jcjo.2012.02.003 |url=}}</ref>


==Risk Factors==
==Risk Factors==
*Common risk factors in the development of Blebitis include the following:<ref name="pmid10721955">{{cite journal |vauthors=Soltau JB, Rothman RF, Budenz DL, Greenfield DS, Feuer W, Liebmann JM, Ritch R |title=Risk factors for glaucoma filtering bleb infections |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=118 |issue=3 |pages=338–42 |year=2000 |pmid=10721955 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
Common risk factors in the development of Blebitis include:<ref name="pmid10721955">{{cite journal |vauthors=Soltau JB, Rothman RF, Budenz DL, Greenfield DS, Feuer W, Liebmann JM, Ritch R |title=Risk factors for glaucoma filtering bleb infections |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=118 |issue=3 |pages=338–42 |year=2000 |pmid=10721955 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
**Undergoing [[trabeculectomy]] for [[glaucoma]]
*Undergoing [[trabeculectomy]] for [[glaucoma]]
**Experiencing a [[bleb]]-leak
*Experiencing a [[bleb]]-leak
**Persistent use of anti-[[fibrosis|fibrotic]] topical agents
*Persistent use of anti-[[fibrosis|fibrotic]] topical agents
**Being male
*Being male
**Being young
*Being young
**Being African-American
*Being African-American
**Experiencing recurrent bacterial [[conjunctivitis]]
*Experiencing recurrent bacterial [[conjunctivitis]]
**Inferior location of the filtering [[bleb]]
*Inferior location of the filtering [[bleb]]
**Use of contact lenses
*Use of contact lenses
**[[Immunocompromise]]<ref name="pmid22011488">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ramakrishnan R, Bharathi MJ, Maheshwari D, Mohideen PM, Khurana M, Shivakumar C |title=Etiology and epidemiological analysis of glaucoma-filtering bleb infections in a tertiary eye care hospital in South India |journal=Indian J Ophthalmol |volume=59 |issue=6 |pages=445–53 |year=2011 |pmid=22011488 |pmc=3214414 |doi=10.4103/0301-4738.86311 |url=}}</ref>
*[[Immunocompromise]]<ref name="pmid22011488">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ramakrishnan R, Bharathi MJ, Maheshwari D, Mohideen PM, Khurana M, Shivakumar C |title=Etiology and epidemiological analysis of glaucoma-filtering bleb infections in a tertiary eye care hospital in South India |journal=Indian J Ophthalmol |volume=59 |issue=6 |pages=445–53 |year=2011 |pmid=22011488 |pmc=3214414 |doi=10.4103/0301-4738.86311 |url=}}</ref>


==Natural History, Complications and Prognosis==
==Natural History, Complications and Prognosis==
===Natural History===
===Natural History===
*Blebitis will require topical [[antibiotic]] therapy to resolve.<ref name="pmid9828779">{{cite journal |vauthors=Waheed S, Liebmann JM, Greenfield DS, Ritterband DC, Seedor JA, Shah M, Ritch R |title=Recurrent bleb infections |journal=Br J Ophthalmol |volume=82 |issue=8 |pages=926–9 |year=1998 |pmid=9828779 |pmc=1722708 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
Blebitis will require topical [[antibiotic]] therapy to resolve.<ref name="pmid9828779">{{cite journal |vauthors=Waheed S, Liebmann JM, Greenfield DS, Ritterband DC, Seedor JA, Shah M, Ritch R |title=Recurrent bleb infections |journal=Br J Ophthalmol |volume=82 |issue=8 |pages=926–9 |year=1998 |pmid=9828779 |pmc=1722708 |doi= |url=}}</ref> Without treatment, blebitis may lead to [[bleb]] leakage and [[Bleb-related endophthalmitis|bleb-related endopthalmitis]]. Recurrence of infection and blebitis is likely without treatment.
*Without treatment, blebitis may lead to [[bleb]] leakage and [[bleb-related endopthalmitis]]
**Recurrence of infection and blebitis is likely without treatment.


===Complications===
===Complications===
*Without treatment, a possible complication of blebitis is [[Bleb-related endophthalmitis|endophthalmitis]].<ref name="pmid9186440">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ciulla TA, Beck AD, Topping TM, Baker AS |title=Blebitis, early endophthalmitis, and late endophthalmitis after glaucoma-filtering surgery |journal=Ophthalmology |volume=104 |issue=6 |pages=986–95 |year=1997 |pmid=9186440 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
Without treatment, a possible complication of blebitis is [[Bleb-related endophthalmitis|endophthalmitis]].<ref name="pmid9186440">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ciulla TA, Beck AD, Topping TM, Baker AS |title=Blebitis, early endophthalmitis, and late endophthalmitis after glaucoma-filtering surgery |journal=Ophthalmology |volume=104 |issue=6 |pages=986–95 |year=1997 |pmid=9186440 |doi= |url=}}</ref> [[Endophthalmitis]] is caused when the pathogen causing blebitis, previously limited to the [[bleb]], spreads past the [[anterior chamber]] of the eye and into the [[vitreous body]].
**[[Endophthalmitis]] is caused when the pathogen causing blebitis, previously limited to the [[bleb]], spreads past the [[anterior chamber]] of the eye and into the [[vitreous body]].


===Prognosis===
===Prognosis===
*With treatment, the prognosis for blebitis is good.<ref name="pmid11131749">{{cite journal |vauthors=Poulsen EJ, Allingham RR |title=Characteristics and risk factors of infections after glaucoma filtering surgery |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=9 |issue=6 |pages=438–43 |year=2000 |pmid=11131749 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
With treatment, the prognosis for blebitis is good.<ref name="pmid11131749">{{cite journal |vauthors=Poulsen EJ, Allingham RR |title=Characteristics and risk factors of infections after glaucoma filtering surgery |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=9 |issue=6 |pages=438–43 |year=2000 |pmid=11131749 |doi= |url=}}</ref> Risk of permanent [[vision loss]] is minimal with effective therapy.
**Risk of permanent vision loss is minimal with effective therapy.
Without treatment, the prognosis for blebitis is worse due to the increased risk of developing [[bleb-related endophthalmitis]].<ref name="pmid24020653">{{cite journal |vauthors=Wallin Ö, Al-ahramy AM, Lundström M, Montan P |title=Endophthalmitis and severe blebitis following trabeculectomy. Epidemiology and risk factors; a single-centre retrospective study |journal=Acta Ophthalmol |volume=92 |issue=5 |pages=426–31 |year=2014 |pmid=24020653 |doi=10.1111/aos.12257 |url=}}</ref>
*Without treatment, the prognosis for blebitis is worse due to the increased risk of developing [[endophthalmitis]].<ref name="pmid24020653">{{cite journal |vauthors=Wallin Ö, Al-ahramy AM, Lundström M, Montan P |title=Endophthalmitis and severe blebitis following trabeculectomy. Epidemiology and risk factors; a single-centre retrospective study |journal=Acta Ophthalmol |volume=92 |issue=5 |pages=426–31 |year=2014 |pmid=24020653 |doi=10.1111/aos.12257 |url=}}</ref>


==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
===Symptoms===
===Symptoms===
*Symptoms of blebitis may include the following:<ref name="Brown1994">{{cite journal|last1=Brown|first1=Reay H.|title=Treatment of Bleb Infection After Glaucoma Surgery|journal=Archives of Ophthalmology|volume=112|issue=1|year=1994|pages=57|issn=0003-9950|doi=10.1001/archopht.1994.01090130067019}}</ref>
Symptoms of blebitis may include:<ref name="Brown1994">{{cite journal|last1=Brown|first1=Reay H.|title=Treatment of Bleb Infection After Glaucoma Surgery|journal=Archives of Ophthalmology|volume=112|issue=1|year=1994|pages=57|issn=0003-9950|doi=10.1001/archopht.1994.01090130067019}}</ref>
**[[Ocular]] pain of the filtering [[bleb]]
*[[Ocular]] pain of the filtering [[bleb]]
**[[Photophobia|Excessive sensitivity to light]]<ref name="Feldman 2013 p. ">{{cite book | last=Feldman | first=Robert | title=Complications of glaucoma surgery | publisher=Oxford University Press | location=Oxford | year=2013 | isbn=978-0-19-538236-5 | page=}}</ref>
*[[Photophobia|Excessive sensitivity to light]]<ref name="Feldman 2013 p. ">{{cite book | last=Feldman | first=Robert | title=Complications of glaucoma surgery | publisher=Oxford University Press | location=Oxford | year=2013 | isbn=978-0-19-538236-5 | page=}}</ref>
**[[Vision loss]]
*[[Vision loss]]
**Intraocular pressure
*Intraocular pressure
**Fluid [[discharge]]<ref name="pmid12084758">{{cite journal |vauthors=Matsuo H, Tomita G, Araie M, Suzuki Y, Kaji Y, Obata H, Tanaka S |title=Histopathological findings in filtering blebs with recurrent blebitis |journal=Br J Ophthalmol |volume=86 |issue=7 |pages=827 |year=2002 |pmid=12084758 |pmc=1771211 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
*Fluid [[discharge]]<ref name="pmid12084758">{{cite journal |vauthors=Matsuo H, Tomita G, Araie M, Suzuki Y, Kaji Y, Obata H, Tanaka S |title=Histopathological findings in filtering blebs with recurrent blebitis |journal=Br J Ophthalmol |volume=86 |issue=7 |pages=827 |year=2002 |pmid=12084758 |pmc=1771211 |doi= |url=}}</ref>


===Physical Examination===
===Physical Examination===
*Physical examination may be remarkable for:
Physical examination may be remarkable for:
**[[Hyperaemia]] in the affected eye
*[[Hyperemia]] in the affected eye
**[[Erythema]] of the affected eye due to presence of [[hypopyon]]<ref name="Brown1994">{{cite journal|last1=Brown|first1=Reay H.|title=Treatment of Bleb Infection After Glaucoma Surgery|journal=Archives of Ophthalmology|volume=112|issue=1|year=1994|pages=57|issn=0003-9950|doi=10.1001/archopht.1994.01090130067019}}</ref>
*[[Erythema]] of the affected eye due to presence of [[hypopyon]]<ref name="Brown1994">{{cite journal|last1=Brown|first1=Reay H.|title=Treatment of Bleb Infection After Glaucoma Surgery|journal=Archives of Ophthalmology|volume=112|issue=1|year=1994|pages=57|issn=0003-9950|doi=10.1001/archopht.1994.01090130067019}}</ref>
**Thinning of the [[bleb]] [[epithelium]]
*Thinning of the [[bleb]] [[epithelium]]
**Whitening of the [[bleb]]<ref name="pmid8285894">{{cite journal |vauthors=Brown RH, Yang LH, Walker SD, Lynch MG, Martinez LA, Wilson LA |title=Treatment of bleb infection after glaucoma surgery |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=112 |issue=1 |pages=57–61 |year=1994 |pmid=8285894 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
*Whitening of the [[bleb]]<ref name="pmid8285894">{{cite journal |vauthors=Brown RH, Yang LH, Walker SD, Lynch MG, Martinez LA, Wilson LA |title=Treatment of bleb infection after glaucoma surgery |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=112 |issue=1 |pages=57–61 |year=1994 |pmid=8285894 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
*Presence of [[maculopathy|maculopathic]] [[pus|purulent]] infiltrate.
*Presence of [[maculopathy|maculopathic]] [[pus|purulent]] infiltrate


===Laboratory Findings===
===Laboratory Findings===
*A positive test for ''[[staphylococcus]]'' or ''[[streptococcus]]'' [[bacteria]] is diagnostic of blebitis.<ref name="pmid22011488">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ramakrishnan R, Bharathi MJ, Maheshwari D, Mohideen PM, Khurana M, Shivakumar C |title=Etiology and epidemiological analysis of glaucoma-filtering bleb infections in a tertiary eye care hospital in South India |journal=Indian J Ophthalmol |volume=59 |issue=6 |pages=445–53 |year=2011 |pmid=22011488 |pmc=3214414 |doi=10.4103/0301-4738.86311 |url=}}</ref>
A positive test for ''[[staphylococcus]]'' or ''[[streptococcus]]'' [[bacteria]] is diagnostic of blebitis.<ref name="pmid22011488">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ramakrishnan R, Bharathi MJ, Maheshwari D, Mohideen PM, Khurana M, Shivakumar C |title=Etiology and epidemiological analysis of glaucoma-filtering bleb infections in a tertiary eye care hospital in South India |journal=Indian J Ophthalmol |volume=59 |issue=6 |pages=445–53 |year=2011 |pmid=22011488 |pmc=3214414 |doi=10.4103/0301-4738.86311 |url=}}</ref>
**This is obtained via a [[culture]] and [[gram stain]] of the aqueous [[humor]], swabbed from the surface of the [[bleb]].
*This is obtained via a [[culture]] and [[gram stain]] of the [[aqueous humor]], swabbed from the surface of the [[bleb]].
**[[Polymerase chain reaction]] (PCR) testing of the aqueous [[humor]] will reveal [[bacterial]] infection.
*[[Polymerase chain reaction]] (PCR) testing of the [[aqueous humor]] will reveal [[bacterial]] infection.


===Imaging Findings===
===Imaging Findings===
*Microscopic examination of the [[bleb]] may reveal histopathological indications of blebitis, including the following:<ref name="pmid19920531">{{cite journal |vauthors=Mietz H, Brunner R, Addicks K, Krieglstein GK |title=Histopathology of an avascular filtering bleb after trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=2 |issue=4 |pages=266–70 |year=1993 |pmid=19920531 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
There are no imaging findings associated with blebitis.
**[[Goblet cell]] depletion
**Erosion or absence of the basement layer of the [[bleb]] [[epithelium]]
**Thinning of the [[epithelial]] layers.


===Other Diagnostic Studies===
===Other Diagnostic Studies===
*Physical examination and microscopic histopathological analysis of suspected blebitis is sufficient for diagnosis.
Physical examination and microscopic histopathological analysis of suspected blebitis is sufficient for diagnosis.


==Treatment==
==Treatment==
===Medical Therapy===
===Medical Therapy===
*The mainstays of therapy for blebitis are fortified topical [[antimicrobial]] and [[antibacterial]] agents:<ref name="pmid11558820">{{cite journal |vauthors=Reynolds AC, Skuta GL, Monlux R, Johnson J |title=Management of blebitis by members of the American Glaucoma Society: a survey |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=10 |issue=4 |pages=340–7 |year=2001 |pmid=11558820 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
The mainstays of therapy for blebitis are fortified topical [[antimicrobial]] and [[antibacterial]] agents:<ref name="pmid11558820">{{cite journal |vauthors=Reynolds AC, Skuta GL, Monlux R, Johnson J |title=Management of blebitis by members of the American Glaucoma Society: a survey |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=10 |issue=4 |pages=340–7 |year=2001 |pmid=11558820 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
**[[fluoroquinolone]]
*[[fluoroquinolone]]
***[[moxifloxacin]]
**[[moxifloxacin]]
***[[gatifloxacin]]  
**[[gatifloxacin]]  
**[[chloramphenicol]]
*[[chloramphenicol]]
**[[aminoglycoside]]
*[[aminoglycoside]]
**[[vancomycin]]
*[[vancomycin]]
**[[cephalosporin]]
*[[cephalosporin]]
*Topical [[corticosteroids]] are often used in conjunction with antimicrobrial therapy.
Topical [[corticosteroids]] are often used in conjunction with antimicrobial therapy.


===Surgery===
===Surgery===
*Surgery is rarely indicated for blebitis for cases such that the [[bleb]] displays positive Seidel-test results for leakage.<ref name="pmid11558820">{{cite journal |vauthors=Reynolds AC, Skuta GL, Monlux R, Johnson J |title=Management of blebitis by members of the American Glaucoma Society: a survey |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=10 |issue=4 |pages=340–7 |year=2001 |pmid=11558820 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
Surgery is rarely indicated for blebitis for cases such that the [[bleb]] displays positive Seidel-test results for leakage.<ref name="pmid11558820">{{cite journal |vauthors=Reynolds AC, Skuta GL, Monlux R, Johnson J |title=Management of blebitis by members of the American Glaucoma Society: a survey |journal=J. Glaucoma |volume=10 |issue=4 |pages=340–7 |year=2001 |pmid=11558820 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
**Surgery will be performed to repair the [[bleb]] but is only indicated when the chance of reinfection is eliminated.
*Surgery will be performed to repair the [[bleb]] but is only indicated when the chance of reinfection is eliminated.


===Prevention===
===Prevention===
*Effective measures for the primary prevention of blebitis include those that minimize the possibility of ocular [[bacterial]] infection following a [[trabeculectomy]]:
Effective measures for the primary prevention of blebitis include those that minimize the possibility of ocular [[bacterial]] infection following a [[trabeculectomy]]:
**Minimizing use of topical [[corticosteroids]] to prevent [[bleb]]-leakage that predisposes blebitis.<ref name="pmid22011488">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ramakrishnan R, Bharathi MJ, Maheshwari D, Mohideen PM, Khurana M, Shivakumar C |title=Etiology and epidemiological analysis of glaucoma-filtering bleb infections in a tertiary eye care hospital in South India |journal=Indian J Ophthalmol |volume=59 |issue=6 |pages=445–53 |year=2011 |pmid=22011488 |pmc=3214414 |doi=10.4103/0301-4738.86311 |url=}}</ref>
*Minimizing use of topical [[corticosteroids]] to prevent [[bleb]]-leakage that predisposes blebitis.<ref name="pmid22011488">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ramakrishnan R, Bharathi MJ, Maheshwari D, Mohideen PM, Khurana M, Shivakumar C |title=Etiology and epidemiological analysis of glaucoma-filtering bleb infections in a tertiary eye care hospital in South India |journal=Indian J Ophthalmol |volume=59 |issue=6 |pages=445–53 |year=2011 |pmid=22011488 |pmc=3214414 |doi=10.4103/0301-4738.86311 |url=}}</ref>
**Avoiding prolonged use of topical [[antibiotics]] beyond the prescribed time period post-[[trabeculectomy]].
*Avoiding prolonged use of topical [[antibiotics]] beyond the prescribed time period post-[[trabeculectomy]].
**Avoiding inferior or nasal placement of the [[bleb]] to reduce the risk of leakage.<ref name="pmid8602774">{{cite journal |vauthors=Caronia RM, Liebmann JM, Friedman R, Cohen H, Ritch R |title=Trabeculectomy at the inferior limbus |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=114 |issue=4 |pages=387–91 |year=1996 |pmid=8602774 |doi= |url=}}</ref>
*Avoiding inferior or nasal placement of the [[bleb]] to reduce the risk of leakage.<ref name="pmid8602774">{{cite journal |vauthors=Caronia RM, Liebmann JM, Friedman R, Cohen H, Ritch R |title=Trabeculectomy at the inferior limbus |journal=Arch. Ophthalmol. |volume=114 |issue=4 |pages=387–91 |year=1996 |pmid=8602774 |doi= |url=}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
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[[Category:Disease]]
[[Category:Up-To-Date]]
[[Category:Infectious disease]]
[[Category:Ophthalmology]]
[[Category:Ophthalmology]]
[[Category:Infectious disease]]

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Luke Rusowicz-Orazem, B.S.

Overview

Blebitis is the inflammation of the ocular bleb as a result of bacterial infection. It is a possible complication of a trabeculectomy performed to treat glaucoma. The causative pathogens are usually Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria. Trabulectomy creates a point of possible infiltration in the bleb; the prolonged use of anti-metabolites following trabeculectomy increases the risk of bleb infection via cyst formation, epithelial wall thinning and erosion, and goblet cell depletion and decreased mucin production. Membrane deterioration, in conjunction with an inferior location for the bleb, creates a flow pathway for bacterial infiltration through the bleb's aqueous humor. Symptoms of blebitis include ocular pain, photophobia and loss of vision, intraocular pressure, and fluid discharge. Physical examination may reveal erythema and hyperemia of the affected eye, as well as thinning and whitening of the bleb. The presence of maculopathic purulent infiltrate can also be found upon physical exam. The mainstays of therapy for blebitis are fortified topical antimicrobial and antibacterial agents, as well as topical corticosteroids. With treatment, the prognosis for blebitis is good. Without treatment, blebitis can result in bleb-related endophthalmitis, leading to a much worse prognosis, including permanent vision loss and death. Blebitis is very rare; the incidence in the United States was estimated to be 550 per 100,000 individuals (.55%) from 2007-2011.

Historical Perspective

Blebitis was officially identified by Dr. R.H. Brown in 1994 to classify bleb-infection not associated with the vitreous.[1]

Classification

There is no diagnostic classification schema for blebitis. However, blebitis is considered Stage I of the bleb-related infection classification system.[2][3][4][5]

Bleb-related Infection Classification

Stage Description
Stage I Blebitis - infection confined to the bleb itself
Stage II Bleb-related endophthalmitis mainly involving the anterior chamber
Stage IIIa Bleb-related endophthalmitis with mild vitreous involvement
Stage IIIb Bleb-related endophthalmitis with marked vitreous involvement

Pathophysiology

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of blebitis is characterized by the infiltration of staphylococcus and streptococcus bacteria into the bleb following trabeculectomy.[6] The removal of the trabecula and adjacent structures creates a point of infiltration for pathogenic bacteria.[7] The prolonged use of anti-metabolites following trabeculectomy increases the risk of bleb infection. Anti-metabolite drug use results in epithelial thinning, which heightens the risk of infiltration.[8][9].

Additional pathogenic factors include:

  • Post-operative goblet cell depletion decreases the amount of protective mucin.
  • Inferior placement of the bleb heightens the risk of infection by the increased risk of leakage, providing a flow pathway for pathogenic bacteria to travel from the lacrimal lake to the bleb[10].
    • Lack of protection from the eyelid for inferior bleb placements contributes to infection risk.

Gross Pathology

On gross pathology, maculopathic purulent infiltrate, edematous erythema, hyperaemia and hypopyon are characteristics of blebitis.[9]

Microscopic Pathology

On microscopic histopathological analysis, goblet cell-depletion and epithelial thinning are characteristic of blebitis.[11] Observation of the basement layer of conjunctival epithelial cells may demonstrate thinning, missing segments, or total absence.

Causes

Blebitis may be caused by bacterial infection, predominantly Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp.[5][12] [9] Less commonly,Corynebacterium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Nocardia have been isolated in cases of blebitis.[13][14]

Differentiating Blebitis from Other Diseases

Blebitis must be differentiated from other diseases that cause ocular erythema and hyperaemia, as well as pain, pressure, loss of vision, and photophobia.[15]

Disease Findings
Bleb-related endophthalmitis An ocular disease that results from the spread of bleb-infection extends beyond the anterior chamber. Presents with similar symptoms to blebitis, including ocular pain, photophobia, hyperaemia, and bleb-leakage. Primarily Differentiates from blebitis by the presence of infection and inflammation in the vitreous. There is also increased conjunctivitis in bleb-related endophthalmitis. Symptoms are more severe, with near-total vision loss common in the absence of treatment. Primarily caused by Streptococcus infection; aggressive intravitreal vancomycin and broad spectrum antibiotics are necessary to prevent vision morbidity.[16]

Epidemiology and Demographics

From 2007-2011, the incidence of blebitis in the United States was approximately 550 per 100,000 individuals.[17]

Age

Blebitis patients are usually less than 40 years old.[18] Blebitis is also commonly seen in African American patients older than 40 years old and Mexican Americans older than 60 years old, due to the higher incidence of the precursory glaucoma surgery.

Gender

Males are more commonly affected with blebitis than females.[19]

Race

African-Americans are more commonly affected with blebitis than other races.[19] Inuit are more prone to blebitis due to the higher incidence of glaucoma in that population.[20]

Risk Factors

Common risk factors in the development of Blebitis include:[19]

Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

Natural History

Blebitis will require topical antibiotic therapy to resolve.[21] Without treatment, blebitis may lead to bleb leakage and bleb-related endopthalmitis. Recurrence of infection and blebitis is likely without treatment.

Complications

Without treatment, a possible complication of blebitis is endophthalmitis.[22] Endophthalmitis is caused when the pathogen causing blebitis, previously limited to the bleb, spreads past the anterior chamber of the eye and into the vitreous body.

Prognosis

With treatment, the prognosis for blebitis is good.[23] Risk of permanent vision loss is minimal with effective therapy. Without treatment, the prognosis for blebitis is worse due to the increased risk of developing bleb-related endophthalmitis.[12]

Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms of blebitis may include:[24]

Physical Examination

Physical examination may be remarkable for:

Laboratory Findings

A positive test for staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria is diagnostic of blebitis.[6]

Imaging Findings

There are no imaging findings associated with blebitis.

Other Diagnostic Studies

Physical examination and microscopic histopathological analysis of suspected blebitis is sufficient for diagnosis.

Treatment

Medical Therapy

The mainstays of therapy for blebitis are fortified topical antimicrobial and antibacterial agents:[15]

Topical corticosteroids are often used in conjunction with antimicrobial therapy.

Surgery

Surgery is rarely indicated for blebitis for cases such that the bleb displays positive Seidel-test results for leakage.[15]

  • Surgery will be performed to repair the bleb but is only indicated when the chance of reinfection is eliminated.

Prevention

Effective measures for the primary prevention of blebitis include those that minimize the possibility of ocular bacterial infection following a trabeculectomy:

  • Minimizing use of topical corticosteroids to prevent bleb-leakage that predisposes blebitis.[6]
  • Avoiding prolonged use of topical antibiotics beyond the prescribed time period post-trabeculectomy.
  • Avoiding inferior or nasal placement of the bleb to reduce the risk of leakage.[10]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Brown RH, Yang LH, Walker SD, Lynch MG, Martinez LA, Wilson LA (1994). "Treatment of bleb infection after glaucoma surgery". Arch. Ophthalmol. 112 (1): 57–61. PMID 8285894.
  2. ↑ Yamamoto T, Kuwayama Y, Collaborative Bleb-related Infection Incidence and Treatment Study Group (2011). "Interim clinical outcomes in the collaborative bleb-related infection incidence and treatment study". Ophthalmology. 118 (3): 453–8. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2010.07.002. PMID 20932582.
  3. ↑ Greenfield DS (1998). "Bleb-related ocular infection". J Glaucoma. 7 (2): 132–6. PMID 9559501.
  4. ↑ Azuara-Blanco A, Katz LJ (1998). "Dysfunctional filtering blebs". Surv Ophthalmol. 43 (2): 93–126. PMID 9763136.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Yamamoto T (2012). Taiwan J of Ophthalmology. 2 (1): 2–5 http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211505611000342. Text " title:Bleb-related infection: Clinical features and management. " ignored (help); Missing or empty |title= (help)
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 Ramakrishnan R, Bharathi MJ, Maheshwari D, Mohideen PM, Khurana M, Shivakumar C (2011). "Etiology and epidemiological analysis of glaucoma-filtering bleb infections in a tertiary eye care hospital in South India". Indian J Ophthalmol. 59 (6): 445–53. doi:10.4103/0301-4738.86311. PMC 3214414. PMID 22011488.
  7. ↑ Zahid S, Musch DC, Niziol LM, Lichter PR (2013). "Risk of endophthalmitis and other long-term complications of trabeculectomy in the Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study (CIGTS)". Am. J. Ophthalmol. 155 (4): 674–680, 680.e1. doi:10.1016/j.ajo.2012.10.017. PMC 3608803. PMID 23246272.
  8. ↑ Wells AP, Cordeiro MF, Bunce C, Khaw PT (2003). "Cystic bleb formation and related complications in limbus- versus fornix-based conjunctival flaps in pediatric and young adult trabeculectomy with mitomycin C". Ophthalmology. 110 (11): 2192–7. doi:10.1016/S0161-6420(03)00800-5. PMID 14597529.
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 Matsuo H, Tomita G, Araie M, Suzuki Y, Kaji Y, Obata H, Tanaka S (2002). "Histopathological findings in filtering blebs with recurrent blebitis". Br J Ophthalmol. 86 (7): 827. PMC 1771211. PMID 12084758.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 Caronia RM, Liebmann JM, Friedman R, Cohen H, Ritch R (1996). "Trabeculectomy at the inferior limbus". Arch. Ophthalmol. 114 (4): 387–91. PMID 8602774.
  11. ↑ Mietz H, Brunner R, Addicks K, Krieglstein GK (1993). "Histopathology of an avascular filtering bleb after trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C". J. Glaucoma. 2 (4): 266–70. PMID 19920531.
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 Wallin Ö, Al-ahramy AM, Lundström M, Montan P (2014). "Endophthalmitis and severe blebitis following trabeculectomy. Epidemiology and risk factors; a single-centre retrospective study". Acta Ophthalmol. 92 (5): 426–31. doi:10.1111/aos.12257. PMID 24020653.
  13. ↑ Ifantides C, Batlle OR, Mushatt D, Ayyala RS (2015). "Nocardia exalbida blebitis: a case report". J Glaucoma. 24 (4): e19–21. doi:10.1097/IJG.0b013e3182a07574. PMID 25826645.
  14. ↑ Bharathi S, Raman GV, Mohan DM, Krishnan A (2014). "An unusual presentation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa blebitis following combined surgery". Indian J Ophthalmol. 62 (9): 958–60. doi:10.4103/0301-4738.143947. PMC 4244747. PMID 25370403.
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 15.2 Reynolds AC, Skuta GL, Monlux R, Johnson J (2001). "Management of blebitis by members of the American Glaucoma Society: a survey". J. Glaucoma. 10 (4): 340–7. PMID 11558820.
  16. ↑ Ba'arah BT, Smiddy WE (2009). "Bleb-related Endophthalmitis: Clinical Presentation, Isolates, Treatment and Visual Outcome of Culture-proven Cases". Middle East Afr J Ophthalmol. 16 (1): 20–4. doi:10.4103/0974-9233.48862. PMC 2813581. PMID 20142955.
  17. ↑ Vaziri K, Kishor K, Schwartz SG, Maharaj AS, Moshfeghi DM, Moshfeghi AA, Flynn HW (2015). "Incidence of bleb-associated endophthalmitis in the United States". Clin Ophthalmol. 9: 317–22. doi:10.2147/OPTH.S75286. PMC 4334336. PMID 25709395.
  18. ↑ "Facts About Glaucoma | National Eye Institute".
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 19.2 Soltau JB, Rothman RF, Budenz DL, Greenfield DS, Feuer W, Liebmann JM, Ritch R (2000). "Risk factors for glaucoma filtering bleb infections". Arch. Ophthalmol. 118 (3): 338–42. PMID 10721955.
  20. ↑ Cook C, Foster P (2012). "Epidemiology of glaucoma: what's new?". Can. J. Ophthalmol. 47 (3): 223–6. doi:10.1016/j.jcjo.2012.02.003. PMID 22687296.
  21. ↑ Waheed S, Liebmann JM, Greenfield DS, Ritterband DC, Seedor JA, Shah M, Ritch R (1998). "Recurrent bleb infections". Br J Ophthalmol. 82 (8): 926–9. PMC 1722708. PMID 9828779.
  22. ↑ Ciulla TA, Beck AD, Topping TM, Baker AS (1997). "Blebitis, early endophthalmitis, and late endophthalmitis after glaucoma-filtering surgery". Ophthalmology. 104 (6): 986–95. PMID 9186440.
  23. ↑ Poulsen EJ, Allingham RR (2000). "Characteristics and risk factors of infections after glaucoma filtering surgery". J. Glaucoma. 9 (6): 438–43. PMID 11131749.
  24. ↑ 24.0 24.1 Brown, Reay H. (1994). "Treatment of Bleb Infection After Glaucoma Surgery". Archives of Ophthalmology. 112 (1): 57. doi:10.1001/archopht.1994.01090130067019. ISSN 0003-9950.
  25. ↑ Feldman, Robert (2013). Complications of glaucoma surgery. Oxford: Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-538236-5.

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