Endogenous Clostridium septicum panophthalmitis associated with gastrointestinal malignancy

Endogenous panophthalmitis due to Clostridium septicum (C. septicum) is a rare, but life-threatening condition. There is a known association between infection and malignancy. Our patient presented with panophthalmitis - with visual loss, proptosis, raised intraocular pressure and air bubble in the anterior chamber. C. septicum was found in cultures of pus. He was treated with antibiotics and surgery, and recovered. Further investigations showed carcinoma of the colon. This case stresses the need for urgent treatment and subsequent investigation for occult malignancy.