Today is our topic of discussion Definition of Trachoma
Definition of Trachoma
Definition:
Trachoma is a bacterial infection of the eye. It is also called ‘granular conjunctivitis’.
Cause:
Chlamydia trachomatis (obligate intracellular bacteria)
Reservoir:
Children with active disease & chronically infected older children and adults.
Source of infection:
Ocular discharges of infected persons and fomites.
Communicability:
It is a disease of low infectivity. It is infective as long as active lesions are present in the conjunctiva.
Host:
Children of 2 to 5 years. In younger age groups, prevalence is equal in both sexes. In older age groups, females are more affected.
Predisposing factor:
Dust, smoke, irritants such as kajal and other ocular surface materials.
Mode of transmission:
Direct contact with infected eye, nose, or throat secretions or by contact with contaminated objects, such as towels or clothes.
Incubation period:
5 to 12 days.
Symptoms:
1. Inflammation of the tissue lining the eyelids (conjunctivitis), which if untreated may lead to scarring
2. Cloudy cornea
3. Discharge from the eye
4. Swelling of lymph nodes just in front of the ears
5. Swollen eyelids
6. Turned-in eyelashes
Signs and tests:
1. Scarring of the upper eye lid, redness of the sclera.
2. Laboratory tests: To identify and detect the bacteria.
Treatment:
Local:
Sulphacetamide eye drop QDS for 1 month and Tetracycline ointment at bedtime.
Systemic:
Azithromycin (500 mg BD for 4-6 weeks) or tetracycline
Neonatal chlamydial conjunctivitis:
Erythromycin syrup, 50 mg/kg per day orally, in 4 divided doses for 14 days.
Treatment of complication:
Eyelid surgery may be needed to prevent long-term scarring.
Expectations (prognosis):
Early treatment before the development of scarring and lid deformities has an excellent prognosis.
Complications:
The eyelashes may turn in, causing rub against the cornea. This can cause eye ulcers, additional scars, vision loss, and possibly, blindness.
Prevention:
Improved sanitation and avoiding sharing of items such as towels are important measures for limiting the spread of trachoma.
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