Trachoma

Trachoma is a bacterial infection of the eye caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It is a leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare.

What is Trachoma?

Trachoma is a chronic keratoconjunctivitis, which means it is an inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva. The infection is usually spread through direct or indirect contact with an infected person's hands or clothing, or through flies that come into contact with the eyes or nose of an infected person.

Symptoms of Trachoma

The symptoms of trachoma can vary from person to person, but common signs and symptoms include:

• Redness and irritation of the eyes
• Itching or burning sensation in the eyes
• Discharge or pus in the eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Eye pain
• In severe cases, trachoma can cause scarring of the cornea and conjunctiva, leading to blindness

Stages of Trachoma

Trachoma progresses through five stages:

1. Folkular trachoma: The earliest stage, characterized by the presence of follicles on the underside of the eyelid.
2. Intense trachoma: The second stage, marked by intense inflammation and scarring of the conjunctiva.
3. Cicatricial trachoma: The third stage, characterized by scarring of the cornea and conjunctiva.
4. Trichiasis: The fourth stage, where the eyelashes turn inward and rub against the cornea, causing further damage.
5. Corneal opacity: The final stage, where the cornea becomes opaque, leading to blindness.

Treatments for Trachoma

The goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection and prevent long-term complications. Treatment options include:

• Antibiotics: Azithromycin or doxycycline are commonly used to treat trachoma.
• Surgery: In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged eyelids or remove scar tissue.
• Lid surgery: To correct trichiasis and prevent further damage to the cornea.
• Corneal transplantation: In severe cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary to restore vision.
• Environmental improvements: Improving sanitation, providing access to clean water, and promoting hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of trachoma.

Prevention of Trachoma

To prevent trachoma, it is essential to:

• Practice good hygiene, including washing hands regularly and keeping the face clean
• Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels or clothing
• Use insecticides to control fly populations
• Improve sanitation and access to clean water
• Implement mass treatment programs in endemic areas

Global Efforts to Control Trachoma

The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a global initiative to eliminate trachoma by 2020. The strategy includes:

• Surgery: To treat advanced cases of trachoma.
• Antibiotics: To treat infected individuals and prevent further transmission.
• Facial cleanliness: To promote good hygiene practices.
• Environmental improvement: To improve sanitation and access to clean water.