Trachoma

Description

Trachoma is an infection affecting both eyes and is the world’s leading cause of preventable blindness. Trachoma is responsible for the visual impairment of over 2.2 million people and more than half are irreversibly blind. The infection is caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis. This infection is commonly found in developing nations where poverty, overcrowded living conditions with poor sanitation are an issue. It is spread by direct contact with someone infected with the bacteria or with contaminated objects.

Signs and Symptoms

Conjunctivitis (pink eye), Itching and irritation of eyes and eyelids, discharge from the eyes and eye pain, blurred vision.

Progressing to the eyelashes turning inward and scratching the cornea. If the condition isn’t treated the cornea becomes cloudy leading to corneal ulcers.

Treatment

Antibiotics are effective in treating the infection early and can prevent long-term complications.

More advanced cases may require surgery to correct the eyelashes that are growing inward toward the eyes. If the cornea has become so clouded that vision is seriously impaired then a corneal transplant is an option.