AIM:To analyze the spectrum and antibiotic sensitivity of bacteria in the aqueous humor and vitreous immediately following the occurrence of penetrating ocular trauma.

METHODS: Aqueous humor or vitreous specimens were collected from 45 eyes of 45 patients with penetrating ocular trauma before operations. The specimens were prepared for bacterial culture and the associated sensitivity tests to several commonly used antibiotics.

RESULTS: Fifteen eyes of all the patients were found to be positive with bacterial infection, and the most frequently identified bacteria was staphylococcus epidermidis, which accounted for 67.7%(10/15)of all identified cases. All identified bacteria were sensitive to ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin, and less sensitive to cefoperazone. Most of them were resistant to gentamycin, rifampin and chloramphenicol. Accompanying intraocular foreign body or sclera wound were associated with positive bacterial cultures(χ₁²=6.544, P₁=0.016; χ₂²=4.5, P₂=0.034). Causes of injury(χ²=1.667,P=0.197), lens rupture(χ²=1.125,P=0.352)or locations where the specimen was collected(χ²=1.667,P=0.197)did not contribute to the difference in the positive rates of bacterial cultures.

CONCLUSION:In patients with penetrating ocular trauma, the major bacteria entering into the eye was staphylococcus epidermidis. Fluro-Quinolones can be used as the first-line antibiotics for prophylactic treatment. Cefoperazone can be taken as a second choice.