Nosocomial ocular infection--a prospective study.

Nosocomial infection of the eye is an uncommon complication, acquired during the course of hospital management. It may prolong the disease process or even destroy the eye. The overall incidence varies considerably by hospital services. To ascertain the various types of ocular infections and its responsible pathogens, a laboratory-based, nosocomial ocular infection control study was performed in a large referral hospital during a period of January 1997 to June 1999. The study revealed 29 cases (0.08%) of culture proven ocular infections, out of 35,758 total admission during the period of one calendar year. Fifty-one eyes of 29 cases (22 bilateral) had nosocomial infection. Staphylococcus aureus (9), Staphylococcus epidermidis (8) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (5), were the most frequent bacteria. Laboratory investigations helped in initiation and modification of specific antimicrobial therapy and also prognosis. Proper surveillance with the help of laboratory investigations has effective role in the management of nosocomial ocular infection.