Which fungal species is a common cause of fungal endophthalmitis after surgery or trauma?

• A. Aspergillus fumigatus
• B. Candida albicans
• C. Fusarium species
• D. Cryptococcus neoformans

Answer: (B)

Candida albicans is a common cause of fungal endophthalmitis after surgery because this yeast is prevalent in hospital settings and readily contaminates intraocular tissues during procedures. Its ability to adhere to intraocular surfaces and form biofilms on implanted lenses makes it particularly adept at persisting after surgery, leading to postoperative endophthalmitis. While other fungi like Aspergillus fumigatus and Fusarium species are more often linked to endophthalmitis after penetrating trauma with contaminated material, Candida is the leading fungal pathogen in postoperative cases. Cryptococcus neoformans can cause eye infections but is less common in this setting. So, in the context of endophthalmitis following surgery, Candida albicans best fits as the typical culprit.