AIM: The aim of the current study is to evaluate the role of povidone iodine (PVI) in the management of experimental bacterial endophthalmitis in young rabbits.METHOD: Twenty white rabbits were used. Colony-forming units (CFU) of Staphylococcus epidermidis were injected intravitreally into the right eye of each animal. Injected eyes were evaluated clinically daily (anterior and posterior segment examination), and when clinical signs of endophthalmitis appeared, an injection of 0.1 ml PVI was made intravitreally. In group 1 (n = 10), the injected concentration of PVI was 0.1%, and in group 2 (n = 10) the concentration was 0.2%. At the end of the observation period, vitreous sample culture was made, and vitreous and retina specimens were taken for light histology examination as well. results: Group 1 eyes did not show any signs of clinical improvement. Vitreous culture showed the presence of 10(8) CFU/ml of S. epidermidis. Histological examination indicated acute inflammation. Group 2 animals presented a clear gradual regression of the inflammation. Vitreous culture for S. epidermidis proved to be sterile. Histological examination indicated chronic inflammation.CONCLUSIONS: Intravitreal injection of 0.2% PVI is likely to inhibit bacterial endophthalmitis of rabbit eyes due to S. epidermidis.