Trachoma
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Trachoma is a chronic infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It begins as a conjunctivitis, which gets worse if left untreated. It is spread from person to person by hand or flies. It is most common in developing countries where there is overcrowding, poor public utilities and poor hygiene.
Signs and symptoms
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Acute - Tearing painful eyes - Photophobia - Watery or pus-filled eyes - Hyperaemia (red eyes)
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Chronic - Papillae formation inside the upper eyelids - Top edge of cornea looks grey instead of brown (pannus formation) - Papillae disappear leaving white scars - Scars distort the upper lid with subsequent inward deviation of eyelashes (trichiasis) or lid margin (entropion) - Eyelashes abrade the cornea resulting in ulcers and scarring. - Conjunctivae becomes more grey and scarred leading to partial or complete blindness |
Treatment objectives
- Preserve vision
- Treat infection
- Treat the community pool
- Prevent spread of infection
Non-pharmacological treatment
- Provide education on personal and environmental hygiene
- Regular face and hands washing
Pharmacological treatment
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Adult Azithromycin oral 1g orally stat OR Tetracycline eye ointment 1% Apply twice daily for 6 weeks Note: Caution in pregnant women Child Azithromycin oral 20mg/kg in a single dose. OR Tetracycline eye ointment 1% Apply twice daily for 6 weeks |
Referral
Refer for specialist care