[Acute endophthalmitis: from bacteria to clinical settings].

The clinical presentation of endophthalmitis depends on numerous factors, especially the bacteria involved, which determines the delay of infection, the amount of ocular inflammation, and the final prognosis. Results of epidemiological studies have provided a better understanding of the correlation between bacteria and clinical characteristics. Some clinical signs may help the clinician to suspect a virulent bacterium. Clinical and microbiological factors are essential to guide the therapeutic strategy in patients with acute endophthalmitis.