Trachoma

Condition

• Trachoma 

Definition

• repeat infection by bacteria Chlamydia Trachomatis resulting in in turning of the eyelid, the eyelashes can cause irritation and thickening of the cornea and resulting in blindness.

Main features

• Common in indigenous people 
• Scratchy eyes and watery discharge +/- red eye

Management

• if over 6 kg and not pregnant: azithromycin as single dose
• if under 6 kg or pregnant: erythromycin or roxithromycin for 21 days 
• or oily tetracycline eyedrops 1 bd for 3-6 weeks
• Check and treat household contacts
• check routinely for follicles of trachoma

Reference

John Murtagh's general practice 5th edition