The difference between trachoma and conjunctival concretions.

Written by Li Zhen Dong
Ophthalmology
Updated on September 01, 2024
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Trachoma is caused by Chlamydia infection, while eye concretions are generally caused by chronic inflammation leading to lipid accumulation. When the eyelids show symptoms of trachoma, proliferative follicles and proliferative tissues in the eyelids form cobblestone changes. The concretions are white and located subconjunctivally, generally deep enough not to affect the eyes, but if superficial, they protrude into the palpebral conjunctiva and can cause certain wear to the eyes. Symptoms such as a foreign body sensation, burning sensation, and increased secretions can result from both trachoma and eye concretions. For treatment, eye drops are used for trachoma, and the eye concretions are removed under topical anesthesia, which alleviates the symptoms.

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Trachoma papillary hyperplasia refers to the growth of papillary formations on the conjunctiva due to trachoma.

Trachoma papillary hyperplasia refers to the appearance of a large number of conjunctival papillae on the inner surface of the eyelid in patients with trachoma, which is one of the typical manifestations of inflammation. Trachoma is a common eye disease, caused by Chlamydia infection of the conjunctival tissue, and is greatly related to the patient's lack of eye hygiene and rubbing the eyes with dirty hands. Patients with trachoma may experience eye congestion, redness, the presence of follicles and papillary hyperplasia, as well as the formation of scar tissue on the inner surface of the eyelid. Timely treatment is necessary, otherwise the condition may gradually worsen, potentially leading to complications such as upper eyelid ptosis, entropion, and tear duct obstruction. For treatment, eye drops such as Rifampicin, Sodium Sulfacetamide, and Levofloxacin can be used to eliminate the infection.

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Trachoma is caused by what?

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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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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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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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.