
Trachoma - Chronic Chlamydia trachomatis Conjunctivitis
Pathophysiology
Inflammation → recurrent infections → chronic conjunctival scarring
Entropion/trichiasis → corneal abrasion, scarring, ulceration
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Symptoms
Early: itchy/irritated eyes, mild conjunctivitis
Recurrent sticky discharge (often misdiagnosed as bacterial)
Vision loss from corneal opacity (late stage)
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Diagnosis
Clinical: follicular conjunctivitis, scarring
WHO grading system (endemic areas)
Definitive: NAAT for C. trachomatis
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Management
Medical: Azithromycin 20 mg/kg (max 1 g) stat dose
Treat household contacts (prevent reinfection)
Surgical: Refer for trichiasis correction
Environmental:
SAFE strategy: hand/face washing
Fly control, waste management, hygiene education
Reduce overcrowding, improve water access
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Key Points
Avoid epilation without expert guidance (risk of corneal damage)
Community-wide screening in endemic areas reduces transmission
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