Trachoma is caused by what?

Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
Updated on September 24, 2024
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Trachoma is a type of conjunctival keratitis caused by the Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium. It is a chronic infectious disease characterized by a rough and uneven appearance on the surface of the conjunctiva, resembling sand grains, hence its name. In the early stages, the conjunctiva shows infiltration, such as growths of papillae and follicles, along with corneal vascular pannus. In late stages, due to scarring of the affected conjunctiva, entropion and trichiasis can occur, aggravating the damage to the cornea and severely impacting vision or even causing blindness in the patient.

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Written by Wang Fang
Ophthalmology
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What does "syphilis negative" mean?

A negative test for trachoma means that the individual does not have the disease. Trachoma is a chronic infectious disease of the conjunctiva of the eye surface, caused by Chlamydia trachomatis infection. The acute phase of trachoma can manifest as redness, swelling, tearing, increased discharge, and a foreign body sensation in the eyes. If not well-controlled, trachoma can become chronic over time. Due to damage to the corneal epithelium from trachoma, prolonged duration can lead to decreased vision and even blindness. Treatment of trachoma mainly involves the local and systemic use of antibiotics. Local medications primarily include 0.1% rifampicin, 0.5% tetracycline, and sulfonamide eye drops, while systemic medications may include oral doxycycline and other tetracyclines. The treatment course for trachoma is relatively long, generally requiring medication for at least six weeks or more. (Please follow medical advice from a doctor for specific medications.)

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Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
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Can trachoma cause blindness?

Trachoma is a chronic infectious conjunctivitis and keratitis caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, which can lead to blindness if left untreated. After the acute phase of trachoma is cured, it may leave no scars and not affect vision. However, repeated infections can lead to scarring, and in severe cases, complications may endanger vision. Entropion and trichiasis, where eyelashes constantly rub against the cornea, can cause the cornea to become opaque and form ulcers, leading to blindness. Chlamydia trachomatis can cause epithelial keratitis, and at the ends of corneal vascular pannus, corneal infiltration can occur along with entropion and trichiasis, which in turn exacerbates the damage to the cornea, causing opacification and leading to blindness.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
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Common complications of trachoma

Trachoma is a chronic infectious conjunctival keratitis caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It is named trachoma because it forms a rough, uneven appearance on the surface of the conjunctiva, resembling sand grains. The complications of trachoma mainly include common conditions such as entropion, trichiasis, trachomatous corneal ulcers, ptosis, trachomatous dry eye, tear duct obstruction, chronic dacryocystitis, symblepharon, and corneal opacity, among others.

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Written by Li Zhen Dong
Ophthalmology
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Trachoma is what type of infectious disease

Trachoma is classified as a Class C infectious disease by national regulations. Trachoma generally manifests as red eyes, swollen eyes, eye pain, increased secretions, and a foreign body sensation, sometimes affecting vision. The conjunctiva in trachoma shows significant proliferative follicles, or pavement stone-like changes. The transmission of trachoma is mainly through contact. Additionally, it is categorized as a Type C infectious disease, with infectious diseases classified into three major categories: Type A, Type B, and Type C. After contracting trachoma, it is crucial to actively treat it with eye drops and to pay attention to eye hygiene.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
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How is trachoma transmitted?

Trachoma is somewhat contagious. When it is confirmed as trachoma, the eyelids and the conjunctiva of the eyes will carry the bacterium due to Chlamydia infection. When patients touch their eyes with their hands, their fingers or palms are already carrying the bacteria, including Chlamydia. Therefore, when they come into contact with others, cross-infection can occur. Prevention of trachoma primarily involves avoiding contact infection, improving environmental hygiene, enhancing the sanitary management of service industries such as hotels, swimming pools, and barber shops, and developing good hygiene habits, including avoiding rubbing the eyes with hands.