Introduction: Endogenous endophthalmitis (EE) is a severe intraocular infection due to hematogenous spread of bacteria from an extraocular site. Recognition of the primary source of hematogenous spread of bacteria is essential to establish an adequate therapy and avoid other major complications. Infected cutaneous tumor has never been reported as a possible source of EE.
Purpose: To describe the first case of EE due to hematogenous spread of methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus from an infected cutaneous basal cell carcinoma. Systemic antibiotic therapy and surgical excision of the cutaneous lesion were performed.
Conclusion: Severe and long-standing skin infections should be considered as a rare cause of EE.
Keywords: Endogenous endophthalmitis; Staphylococcus aureus; hematogenous spread; infected cutaneous basal cell carcinoma; intraocular infection.