Neonatal Conjunctivitis (Ophthalmia Neonatorum)
exp date isn't null, but text field is
This is a conjunctival infection of neonates contracted by new-borns during delivery
Causes
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis
- Non-STI causes: difficult labour; early rupture of membranes; vacuum extraction or other assisted vaginal delivery; Staphylococcus aureus; viral
- Conjunctival discharge: purulent, mucoid or mucopurulent, depending on the cause
- Conjunctivae show hyperaemia and chemosis; eyelids are usually swollen
- Pain and tenderness in the eyeball
Complications
- If untreated, may lead to: corneal ulceration, perforation, scaring and blindness
Investigations
- Pus swab, Gram stain, microscopy, culture & sensitivity
Treatment objectives
- Eradicate the causative organism
- Prevent complications
Non-pharmacological treatment
- Clean eyes with normal saline or sterile water
Pharmacological treatment
Ophthalmia neonatorum
Erythromycin 12.5 mg/kg in 4 divided doses orally, daily for 14 days
Prophylaxis
Tetracycline hydrochloride 1% eye ointment
Apply to both eyes immediately after birth
OR
Silver nitrate 1% solution
Apply to both eyes immediately after birth
OR
Chloramphenicol 1% eye ointment
Apply to both eyes immediately after birth
Prevention
- Screen and treat all infected mothers in antenatal care
Referral
- Refer neonate to an eye specialist if symptoms worsen