Pseudomonal eyelid necrosis: clinical characteristics and review of the literature.

Pseudomonal eyelid necrosis is a rare condition that has not been well characterized. Five case reports have been previously described. The authors present an additional case, describe its unique features, review the previous reports, and establish the clinical characteristics of the disorder. Pseudomonal eyelid necrosis always occurs in the setting of neutropenia. It may be unilateral or bilateral, and is managed with wound debridement, intravenous and local antibiotics, and, most important, restoration of the neutrophil count. A delay in diagnosis and treatment may lead to functional impairment and cosmetic disfigurement. Although not previously reported in association with eyelid necrosis, uncorrected neutropenia in association with pseudomonal soft tissue infection elsewhere in the body has been associated with septicemia and death. Familiarization with the salient features of the disorder allows prompt therapeutic intervention and may prevent potentially serious complications.