Isolation and Identification of Pathogens Associated in Orbital Cellulitis

Orbital cellulitis is inflammation of eye tissues behind the orbital septum. It is most commonly caused by an acute spread of infection into the eye socket from either the adjacent sinuses or through the blood. It may also occur after trauma. When it affects the rear of the eye, it is known as retro-orbital cellulitis. The study was carried out to determine the pathogens associated with orbital cellulitis among patients attending the clinic in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Complex, Ihiala. The samples were inoculate and cultured on CLED, chocolate and SDA media, after which they are tested further using the gram staining tech, coagulase and catalase test methods to identify the pathogens. The results show that out of the 150 participants examined, 8 (5%) tested positive for orbital cellulitis, while 142 (95%) tested negative by incubation. The findings of this study suggest that orbital cellulitis is a relatively rare condition among patients attending the clinic in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Complex, Ihiala. Organisms isolated includes; Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococci spp, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans. However, the fact that 8% of the participants tested positive for orbital cellulitis highlights the need for healthcare providers to be aware of the condition and to take prompt action to diagnose and treat it. The results of this study have implications for public health policy and practice, particularly in terms of preventing and managing orbital cellulitis. Healthcare providers should be aware of the risk factors for orbital cellulitis, such as trauma to the face or sinusitis, and should take prompt action to diagnose and treat the condition.