Symptoms And Progression Of Trachoma

Trachoma is a type of eye disease caused by infection with a bacterium known as Chlamydia trachomatis. The condition affects both eyes, and it is contagious, spreading from person to person through contact with infected clothing or bedding. The disease can also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, including handshakes, with individuals who have trachoma. Trachoma is the most common cause of preventable blindness throughout the world, and approximately two million cases of trachoma-induced blindness have been reported. The disease is prevalent in rural areas of Africa, South America, Asia, and Australia. Most cases of blindness caused by trachoma have occurred in Africa. Treatment for the condition includes antibiotics such as tetracycline and azithromycin, and these may be enough to eliminate the infection. In the later stages of trachoma, surgical intervention may be available to limit the formation of scar tissue and preserve existing vision.