A71.1

Clinical Causes: Infection with *Chlamydia trachomatis*, transmitted through close personal contact, such as sharing towels or facial contact. Poor hygiene practices and living conditions that facilitate transmission. Inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Environmental factors like dust and flies, which can carry the bacteria to the eyes.

Key Symptoms: Redness and inflammation of the conjunctiva, often marked as granular or follicular conjunctivitis. Swelling of the eyelids (eyelid edema). Discharge from the eyes, which can be mucous or pus-like. Itching or irritation around the eyes. Foreign body sensation or feeling like there’s grit in the eyes. Progressing to pannus formation, where abnormal blood vessels grow over the cornea. Potential eye pain or sensitivity to light as the condition advances.

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing trachoma involves a detailed eye examination by a healthcare professional, who looks for characteristic signs such as follicular conjunctivitis, pannus formation, or scarring. The presence of follicles (small lymphoid tissue projections) on the conjunctiva and signs of inflammation are key clues. In some cases, laboratory tests or examinations of eye secretions may be performed to confirm the presence of *Chlamydia trachomatis* bacteria. The WHO simplified trachoma grading system is commonly used to assess the severity and guide management.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment approaches focus on eradicating the infection and managing inflammation to prevent further complications. Common interventions include: - Antibiotic therapy: Topical antibiotics like tetracycline ointment or oral antibiotics such as azithromycin are prescribed to eliminate bacterial infection. - Improved hygiene practices: Regular face washing, reducing eyelid rubbing, and maintaining cleanliness help reduce spread. - Environmental improvements: Enhancing access to clean water, sanitation, and reducing fly populations can lower transmission rates. - Surgical intervention: In cases where eyelid scarring causes eyelid deformities leading to more serious eye issues, surgeries like bilamellar tarsal rotation (raws) may be necessary. Early detection and treatment are vital to prevent progression to more advanced, blinding stages of trachoma, such as trichiasis, where eyelashes turn inward and irritate the cornea.