Trachoma - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which specialist should I consult for symptoms of trachoma?You need to consult an eye specialist (ophthalmologist). In communities where there is no access to specialist care, a general practitioner can be consulted who can treat the condition or refer for specialist care if required.
2. Does Chlamydia trachomatis cause any other infection other than trachoma?
Yes. Chlamydia trachomatis causes respiratory infection and genital infections as well. There are 15 subtypes of C trachomatis A to K, and L1 L2 and L3.
- The A B and C subtypes cause trachoma
- The D to K subtypes cause genital infections like pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility
- The L1 to L3 subtypes cause a sexually transmitted disease named lymphogranuloma venereum
Trachoma inclusion conjunctivitis is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis subtypes D to K. The adult form occurs when following hand-to-eye contact in the infected persons. The neonatal form occurs when the birth canal of the mother is infected.
4. Can trachoma be prevented by vaccination?
No. There is currently no vaccine available that can prevent trachoma.
5. Why is it difficult to diagnose Chlamydial infections in the laboratory?
Chlamydial organisms are different from several other bacteria in that they can only grow within the living cells i.e. they are obligate intracellular organisms. Thus, cell culture requires special conditions that are not available routinely in all labs.
Specialized tests for Chlamydia trachomatis include identification of chlamydial proteins by tests such as fluorescent-antibody staining or hybridization. Chlamydial antigens can also be detected in exudates or urine by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Nucleic acid amplification tests are too expensive for clinical use.
6. Can trachoma be considered contagious?
Yes. Trachoma is a contagious infection and spreads easily from person to person, more so in crowded and unhygienic conditions and through sharing of personal belongings.
7. What is the function of the eyelids?
The eyelids' main function is to protect the eyes. When we blink, the film of tear is spread evenly across the surface of the cornea ensuring that it does not become dry.
8. How does scarring of cornea affect vision?
For normal vision, light must enter the eye. When there is scar tissue on the cornea, it makes the cornea uneven and blocks or distorts the entry of light into the eye. This results in visual impairment or visual loss.
9. How long does it take to lose vision after trachoma infection?
On an average, it takes about 20 years for loss of vision after trachoma infection.
10. How can flies be controlled?
Control of flies is necessary to prevent the spread of trachoma. Flies are attracted by discharge from the eyes or nose, human or animal waste lying in the open or undisposed garbage. Addressing these issues by measures such as keeping the face clean, maintaining personal hygiene, proper disposal of waste and access to clean toilets with water can control flies and reduce transmission.
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Dr. Lakshmi Venkataraman. (2017, May 04). Trachoma - Frequently Asked Questions. Medindia. Retrieved on Jan 26, 2025 from https://www.medindia.net/health/conditions/trachoma-faqs.htm.
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