The Simplified Trachoma Grading System, Amended Anthony W Solomon,A Amir B Kello,B Mathieu Bangert,A Sheila K West,C Hugh R Taylor,D Rabebe Tekeraoie & Allen Fosterf

Total Page:16

File Type:pdf, Size:1020Kb

The Simplified Trachoma Grading System, Amended Anthony W Solomon,A Amir B Kello,B Mathieu Bangert,A Sheila K West,C Hugh R Taylor,D Rabebe Tekeraoie & Allen Fosterf PolicyPolicy & practice & practice The simplified trachoma grading system, amended Anthony W Solomon,a Amir B Kello,b Mathieu Bangert,a Sheila K West,c Hugh R Taylor,d Rabebe Tekeraoie & Allen Fosterf Abstract A simplified grading system for trachoma was published by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1987. Intended for use by non-specialist personnel working at community level, the system includes five signs, each of which can be present or absent in any eye: (i) trachomatous trichiasis; (ii) corneal opacity; (iii) trachomatous inflammation—follicular; (iv) trachomatous inflammation—intense; and (v) trachomatous scarring. Though neither perfectly sensitive nor perfectly specific for trachoma, these signs have been essential tools for identifying populations that need interventions to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem. In 2018, at WHO’s 4th global scientific meeting on trachoma, the definition of one of the signs, trachomatous trichiasis, was amended to exclude trichiasis that affects only the lower eyelid. This paper presents the amended system, updates its presentation, offers notes on its use and identifies areas of ongoing debate. Introduction (ii) corneal opacity; (iii) trachomatous inflammation—fol- licular; (iv) trachomatous inflammation—intense; and (v) tra- Trachoma is the most important infectious cause of blindness.1 chomatous scarring.19 Trachomatous inflammation—follicular Repeated conjunctival infection2 with particular strains of and trachomatous inflammation—intense are signs of active Chlamydia trachomatis3–5 results, in some people, in conjunc- (inflammatory) trachoma, usually associated with conjunctival tival scarring, trichiasis and corneal opacity. The disease is C. trachomatis infection.21 The signs of the simplified system strongly linked to poverty.6 In March 2019, 142 million people have been used to complete baseline mapping of trachoma in globally were at risk.7 suspected endemic districts worldwide,22,23 to assess the im- At the population level, trachoma may be hyperendemic, pact of interventions in both research24,25 and programme26,27 severe and blinding; or less severe and non-blinding.8 Models contexts, and to establish criteria for elimination of trachoma suggest that more than 150 episodes of C. trachomatis infec- as a public health problem.28 tion are required to develop trichiasis from trachoma;9 im- During recent programmatic scale-up and transition of mune responses to infection are critical in the pathogenetic countries through the validation process,29 technical questions pathway.10,11 Populations therefore presumably transition from have arisen about the use of some of the simplified system’s having blinding to non-blinding disease through reductions signs. In November 2018, WHO convened the 4th global sci- in intensity of ocular C. trachomatis transmission. These entific meeting on trachoma in part to address those questions. reductions in transmission can occur through general socio- In particular, the meeting considered whether the prevalence economic improvement12,13 or specific implementation of the of trachomatous inflammation—follicular in 1–9-year-olds antibiotics, facial cleanliness and environmental improvement remains the best way for programmes to determine whether components of the SAFE strategy for trachoma elimination;14 ocular C. trachomatis transmission intensity has been suffi- the S of SAFE representing surgery for trichiasis,15 which does ciently reduced to minimize the risk of future trachomatous not alter transmission. However, C. trachomatis transmission blindness. Also considered was whether the definition of intensity16,17 would be extremely difficult to measure directly. trachomatous trichiasis could be improved to better differ- In contrast, conjunctival inflammatory responses to infection11 entiate trachomatous from non-trachomatous trichiasis. As can be observed by examination of the conjunctiva under a consequence, the definition of trachomatous trichiasis was low-power magnification. Because of this, and because the amended to exclude trichiasis affecting only the lower eyelid, vision-impairing effects of trachoma are manifest through on the basis that such cases are unlikely to be due to trachoma macroscopic changes in the eyelid and cornea, assessment of and that labelling them as trachomatous trichiasis constitutes the public health impact of trachoma is carried out through potential misclassification.30 detection of physical signs of disease.18 In the current paper we set out the simplified system In 1987, the World Health Organization (WHO) pub- including that amendment, and revise the presentation of the lished the simplified trachoma grading system to provide a system to help users better understand and more consistently standardized method for non-specialist personnel to under- apply the definitions. We discuss the continuing programmatic take such assessments.19 The system, which was field-tested in dependence on the prevalence of trachomatous inflamma- three countries,19,20 has five signs: (i) trachomatous trichiasis; tion—follicular as a clinical proxy for current ocular C. tra- a Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland. b World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo. c Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America. d Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia. e Eye Department, Ministry of Health and Medical Services, South Tarawa, Kiribati. f International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England. Correspondence to Anthony W Solomon (email: solomona@ who .int). (Submitted: 1 December 2019 – Revised version received: 6 July 2020 – Accepted: 7 July 2020 – Published online: 3 September 2020 ) 698 Bull World Health Organ 2020;98:698–705 | doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.2471/BLT.19.248708 Policy & practice Anthony W Solomon et al. WHO simplified trachoma grading system chomatis transmission intensity. Finally, Fig. 1. Outline sketch of an everted upper eyelid we outline other topics for continuing research and reflection. Inevitably, this paper draws heavily from the original article.19 Method of examination The examiner should always use clean hands (by, for example, applying alco- hol-based hand sanitizer), binocular loupes (magnification × 2.5) and ad- equate lighting (either sunlight or a torch). Although sunlight provides the best illumination for examining the conjunctiva, it is better to examine for trachomatous trichiasis indoors because of the photophobia that patients with trichiasis experience. An examination station on the edge of a shaded area can be ideal, but survey teams typically move house-to-house. When examining the conjunctiva outdoors, it is important to orient the person being examined so Note: The drawing shows the area of the tarsal conjunctiva (shaded) to be examined for follicles. that light from the sun passes across the examiner’s shoulder onto the person’s should be inspected for empty eyelash present or absent. A sign must be clearly face. When using a torch, care should be follicles or broken eyelash shafts, which seen to be considered present. If the taken not to contaminate it with fingers may indicate recent epilation. examiner is in doubt, a sign should be that have been in contact with the per- The cornea should be inspected for recorded as being absent. The list below son’s skin or eye. An assistant can help opacities. presents the definitions of the signs. to hold and reassure children while they The eyelid is everted and the con- Amendments from the original grading are examined.31 junctiva inspected for follicles, pro- system19 are shown in italics (Fig. 3). To help ensure that abnormal nounced inflammatory thickening, and Trachomatous trichiasis findings are correctly recorded, the scarring. When examining for follicles, right eye should always be examined only those found within the central part At least one eyelash from the upper eyelid first, then the left eye. To assess for of the upper tarsal conjunctiva (Fig. 1) touches the eyeball, or evidence of recent the presence or absence of each of the are considered significant.19 epilation of in-turned eyelashes from the signs of the system, the structures to be upper eyelid. examined in each eye are, in order: the Appearance of the normal Corneal opacity upper eyelid margin and its eyelashes, then the cornea, then the upper tarsal eye Easily visible corneal opacity that is conjunctiva (the conjunctiva lining the so dense that at least part of the pupil The appearance of the normal eye upper eyelid). margin is blurred when viewed through when examined for trachoma is as To examine for trachomatous tri- the opacity. This definition is intended follows (Fig. 2): (i) no eyelashes touch chiasis, with the examinee’s eye open to detect corneal opacities that cause the eyeball and there is no evidence and the eyelid in its resting state, the significant visual impairment. In in- of recent epilation; (ii) the cornea is examiner should adopt a position so that dividuals with corneal opacity, visual smooth, transparent and avascular; his or her eyes are below the horizontal acuity should be measured, if possible. and (iii) the upper tarsal conjunctiva plane through the person’s eye. Light is smooth, thin and transparent. Be- Trachomatous inflammation— should be shone from below then from neath the whole
Recommended publications
  • Ophthalmic Management of Facial Nerve Palsy
    Eye (2004) 18, 1225–1234 & 2004 Nature Publishing Group All rights reserved 0950-222X/04 $30.00 www.nature.com/eye 1 2 3 Ophthalmic V Lee , Z Currie and JRO Collin REVIEW management of facial nerve palsy Abstract The facial nerve travels with the eighth cranial nerve through the internal auditory canal and The ophthalmologist plays a pivotal role in the through the internal fallopian canal in the evaluation and rehabilitation of patients with petrous temporal bone for the longest facial nerve palsy. It is crucial to recognize and interosseus course of any cranial nerve (30 mm). treat the potentially life-threatening The fibres for the pterygopalatine ganglion underlying causes. The immediate ophthalmic leave at the geniculate ganglion as the greater priority is to ensure adequate corneal superficial petrosal nerve. The nerve to the protection. The medium to long-term stapedius and the chorda tympani (innervation management consists of treatment of epiphora, to the salivary glands) leave prior to the nerve hyperkinetic disorders secondary to aberrant exiting through the stylomastoid foramen as a regeneration and poor cosmesis. Patients purely motor nerve to the muscles of facial should be appropriately referred for general expression.2 Within the substance of the parotid 1 facial re-animation. This review aims to Central Eye Service gland, it divides into the five main Central Middlesex Hospital provide a guide to the management of this branchesFthe temporal, zygomatic, buccal, Acton Lane complex condition. Park Royal mandibular, and cervical branches. Facial nerve Eye (2004) 18, 1225–1234. doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6701383 Acton London, UK lesions above the geniculate ganglion classically Published online 16 April 2004 cause more severe ophthalmic symptoms 2Department of because lacrimal secretion and orbicularis Keywords: gold weight; tarsorrhapy; facial Ophthalmology closure are involved.
    [Show full text]
  • World Report on Vision Infographic
    World report on vision The Facts Projected number of people estimated to have age related macular degeneration and glaucoma, 2020–2030. 243.4 million 195.6 million Everyone, if they live long enough, will experience at least one eye condition in their lifetime. Age related macular degeneration (any) Cataract surgery US$ 6.9 billion 95.4 million Refractive error 76 million US$ 7.4 billion Glaucoma 2020 2030 US$14.3 billion (is the investment) needed globally to treat existing Eye conditions are projected to unaddressed cases of refractive error and cataract. increase due to a variety of factors, including ageing population, lifestyle and NCDs. At least 2.2 billion people live with a vision impairment In at least 1 billion of these cases, vision impairment low- and middle- high-income regions could have been prevented income regions or has yet to be addressed Unaddressed distance vision impairment in many low- and middle- income regions is 4x higher than in high- income regions. Unaddressed refractive error (123.7 million) Cataract (65.2 million) Glaucoma (6.9 million) Corneal opacities (4.2 million) Diabetic Retinopathy (3 million) Trachoma (2 million) Unaddressed presbyopia (826 million) Eye conditions The problem Some eye conditions do not typically cause vision impairment, but others can. Common eye conditions that do not typically cause vision impairment Eyelid Conjunctivitis Dry eye Eyelid Conjunctivitis Dry eye Availability inflammation Accessibility Cyst or Stye Benign growth SubconjunctivalSubconjunctival in thethe eyeeye haemorrhagehaemorrhage Acceptability Common eye conditions that can cause vision impairment Eye care services are poorly integrated into health systems. The availability, accessibility and acceptability of eye Cataract Corneal opacity GlaucomaGlaucoma care services have an influence on eye conditions and vision impairment.
    [Show full text]
  • CAUSES, COMPLICATIONS &TREATMENT of A“RED EYE”
    CAUSES, COMPLICATIONS & TREATMENT of a “RED EYE” 8 Most cases of “red eye” seen in general practice are likely to be conjunctivitis or a superficial corneal injury, however, red eye can also indicate a serious eye condition such as acute angle glaucoma, iritis, keratitis or scleritis. Features such as significant pain, photophobia, reduced visual acuity and a unilateral presentation are “red flags” that a sight-threatening condition may be present. In the absence of specialised eye examination equipment, such as a slit lamp, General Practitioners must rely on identifying these key features to know which patients require referral to an Ophthalmologist for further assessment. Is it conjunctivitis or is it something more Iritis is also known as anterior uveitis; posterior uveitis is serious? inflammation of the choroid (choroiditis). Complications include glaucoma, cataract and macular oedema. The most likely cause of a red eye in patients who present to 4. Scleritis is inflammation of the sclera. This is a very rare general practice is conjunctivitis. However, red eye can also be presentation, usually associated with autoimmune a feature of a more serious eye condition, in which a delay in disease, e.g. rheumatoid arthritis. treatment due to a missed diagnosis can result in permanent 5. Penetrating eye injury or embedded foreign body; red visual loss. In addition, the inappropriate use of antibacterial eye is not always a feature topical eye preparations contributes to antimicrobial 6. Acid or alkali burn to the eye resistance. The patient history will usually identify a penetrating eye injury Most general practice clinics will not have access to specialised or chemical burn to the eye, but further assessment may be equipment for eye examination, e.g.
    [Show full text]
  • Santen CEO Small Meeting
    Santen CEO Small Meeting Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. December 3, 2020 Copyright© 2020 Santen All rights reserved. 0 People with Eye Problems will Increase Further Population growth Visually impaired or blind Aging world Lifestyle change 2.2bn Environmental change Source: WHO World report on vision Copyright© 2020 Santen All rights reserved. 1 Ophthalmic Disease Landscape Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Africa China/Southeast Asia Japan/Western ③Wellness Myopia/ Ptosis ②Treatment of diseases and conditions that do NOT lead to vision loss Dry eye ①Treatment of diseases and conditions Trachoma/ that can cause vision loss Cataract/ Infections AMD Glaucoma Copyright© 2020 Santen All rights reserved. 2 Ophthalmic Disease and Drugs Market Retinitis Glaucoma Myopia (aged 5~19) Pigmentosa China:20mil. China:120mil. Worldwide:1.9mil.*3 Number of Japan:5mil. Asia:54mil. Japan:18.7/100K.*4 Patients*1 Market size (by value*2) Atropine formulation is No fundamental treatment or Drugs commercialized in some effective drugs to control the Market countries. disease progression x12 DE-127 jCell +α (Licensed from jCyte) China Japan Regional and Business Growth Led by Ecosystem Development and New Modality *1: 2020/Decision Resources, LLC. All right reserved. Reproduction, distribution, transmission or publication is prohibited. Reprinted with permission. *2: Copyright © 2020 IQVIA. IQVIA MIDAS 2019.1Q-4Q; Santen analysis based on IQVIA data. Reprinted with permission. *3 Hamel C. Retinitis pigmentosa. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2006;1:40. *4: Japanese Ophthalmological Society Copyright© 2020 Santen All rights reserved. 3 Santen Business Model Sustainable growth enabled by our specialized knowledge with external expertise and technology (1) Ophthalmology (2) Wellness (3) Inclusion Competitiveness as a specialized company Copyright© 2020 Santen All rights reserved.
    [Show full text]
  • Lid and Lash Conditions
    Perth Veterinary Ophthalmology Lid and Lash Conditions Eyelid Diseases The most common eyelid diseases are entropion, ectropion and facial droop. Entropion Entropion means a turning in of the lids. This is a common complaint in young dogs but can sometimes affect older dogs and cats as well. Most cases in young dogs affect the lower lids, but the upper lid can become affected in later life in some breeds such as Cocker Spaniels and Bloodhounds. Entropion Some breeds such as Shar Peis, Chows, Rottweillers and Mastiffs can have very complex entropion leading to defects in both upper and lower lids. A Shar Pei with severe upper and lower lid entropion Entropion is painful and can be potentially blinding. The rolling in of the lid leads to hair coming into contact with the cornea, leading to pain, ulceration and scarring (which can affect vision). In severe cases this can even lead to perforation of the eye. There are many causes of entropion. It can be primary or secondary to other problems affecting the lids (such as ectopic cilia, distichiasis etc. - see below). Some possible causes include the lid being too long, the lid being too tight, instability of the lateral canthus (outer cornea of the eyelids), misdirection of the lateral canthal tendon, brachycephalic anatomy (big eyes and short nose - e.g. Pekingese, Pugs, Shih Tsus, Persian cats etc.), diamond eye defects, loose or too much skin, facial droop etc. Often these cases are referred to a veterinary ophthalmologist for proper assessment and treatment to provide the best outcome. Entropion requires surgical correction.
    [Show full text]
  • Piloting the Treatment of Retinopathy in India Diabetic Retinopathy and Retinopathy of Prematurity
    Piloting the Treatment of Retinopathy in India Diabetic Retinopathy and Retinopathy of Prematurity Report of an Independent External Evaluation Amaltas Piloting the Treatment of Retinopathy in India Diabetic Retinopathy and Retinopathy of Prematurity Amaltas July 2019 Acknowledgements This report provides an independent, external evaluation of a large programme of work on retinopathy funded by the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust Fund with additional funding from the Helmsley Trust Fund. We gratefully acknowledge the support from LSHTM and PHFI. Dr. GVS Murthy, Dr. Clare Gilbert, Dr. Rajan Shukla and Dr. Tripura Batchu extended every support to the evaluators. The wonderful images are the work of photographer Rajesh Pande. Work on the programme was helmed by the Indian Institute of Public Health, Hyderabad, a centre of the Public Health Foundation of India, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom. The programme itself was a collaborative effort of many government and non government organisations and partners in India. This report has been prepared by Amaltas Consulting Private Limited, India. Amaltas (www.amaltas.asia) is a Delhi based organization with a mission to work within the broad scope of development to provide high quality consulting and research in support of accelerating improvements in the lives of people. The report was written by Dr. Suneeta Singh and Shivanshi Kapoor, Amaltas with support from Dr. Deepak Gupta, Consultant. TABLE OF CONTENTS Acronyms List of Figures List of Tables Executive
    [Show full text]
  • Functional Lid Surgery in Down's Syndrome
    Br J Ophthalmol: first published as 10.1136/bjo.73.7.494 on 1 July 1989. Downloaded from British Journal of Ophthalmology, 1989, 73, 494-497 Functional lid surgery in Down's syndrome R J MORRIS AND J R 0 COLLIN From Moorfields Eye Hospital, City Road, London ECI SUMMARY Down's syndrome is associated with characteristic eyelid abnormalities. Ten patients presented with lid abnormalities leading to corneal problems. Five patients had ectropion, four of whom required skin grafting to correct the abnormality. One patient had entropion and four had chronic blepharoconjunctivitis leading to trichiasis, which was treated with double freeze thaw cryotherapy. Down's syndrome is associated with a wide variety of ECTROPION GROUP (FIVE PATIENTS) anatomical and biochemical abnormalities including Four patients had bilateral upper and lower lid congenital mental retardation, congenital heart ectropion as a result of severe lid skin shortage (Fig. defects, immune-system deficiencies, and ocular 1), and two developed spontaneous eversion of the abnormalities-most commonly cataracts, kerato- lids during sleep and on crying (Fig. 2). All had poor conus, Brushfield spots, and strabismus. The lid closure, with an inadequate blink response and incidence of the disease is approximately 1 in 700 live signs of bilateral corneal exposure in the interpal- births and becomes greater with increasing parental pebral zone. Three patients, all of whom had had age.' The characteristic facial features associated previous bilateral tarsorrhaphies which had broken with Down's syndrome include macroglossia, down and failed to provide adequate corneal protec- hypotonia of the lower lip, receding chin, hypoplasia tion, developed permanent corneal scarring in the of the nasal bridge, epicanthic folds, oblique lid axis, interpalpebral zone (Fig.
    [Show full text]
  • Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Problems
    Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Problems Review of Ocular Anatomy Picture taken from Basic Ophthalmology for Medical Students and Primary Care Residents published by the American Academy of Ophthalmology Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Problems Fernando Vega, MD Lacrimal system and eye musculature Eyelid anatomy Picture taken from Basic Ophthalmology for Medical Students and Primary Care Residents published by the American Academy of Ophthalmology n Red Eye Disorders: An Anatomical Approach n Lids n Orbit n Lacrimal System n Conjunctivitis n Cornea n Anterior Chamber Fernando Vega, MD 1 Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Problems Red Eye Disorders: What is not in the scope of Red Eye Possible Causes of a Red Eye n Loss of Vision n Trauma n Vitreous Floaters n Chemicals n Vitreous detatchment n Infection n Retinal detachment n Allergy n Chronic Irritation n Systemic Infections Symptoms can help determine the Symptoms Continued diagnosis Symptom Cause Symptom Cause Itching allergy Deep, intense pain Corneal abrasions, scleritis Scratchiness/ burning lid, conjunctival, corneal Iritis, acute glaucoma, sinusitis disorders, including Photophobia Corneal abrasions, iritis, acute foreign body, trichiasis, glaucoma dry eye Halo Vision corneal edema (acute glaucoma, Localized lid tenderness Hordeolum, Chalazion contact lens overwear) Diagnostic steps to evaluate the patient with Diagnostic steps continued the red eye n Check visual acuity n Estimate depth of anterior chamber n Inspect pattern of redness n Look for irregularities in pupil size or n Detect presence or absence of conjunctival reaction discharge: purulent vs serous n Look for proptosis (protrusion of the globe), n Inspect cornea for opacities or irregularities lid malfunction or limitations of eye n Stain cornea with fluorescein movement Fernando Vega, MD 2 Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Problems How to interpret findings n Decreased visual acuity suggests a serious ocular disease.
    [Show full text]
  • Guidelines for Universal Eye Screening in Newborns Including RETINOPATHY of Prematurity
    GUIDELINES FOR UNIVERSAL EYE SCREENING IN NEWBORNS INCLUDING RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY RASHTRIYA BAL SWASthYA KARYAKRAM Ministry of Health & Family Welfare Government of India June 2017 MESSAGE The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, under the National Health Mission launched the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), an innovative and ambitious initiative, which envisages Child Health Screening and Early Intervention Services. The main focus of the RBSK program is to improve the quality of life of our children from the time of birth till 18 years through timely screening and early management of 4 ‘D’s namely Defects at birth, Development delays including disability, childhood Deficiencies and Diseases. To provide a healthy start to our newborns, RBSK screening begins at birth at delivery points through comprehensive screening of all newborns for various defects including eye and vision related problems. Some of these problems are present at birth like congenital cataract and some may present later like Retinopathy of prematurity which is found especially in preterm children and if missed, can lead to complete blindness. Early Newborn Eye examination is an integral part of RBSK comprehensive screening which would prevent childhood blindness and reduce visual and scholastic disabilities among children. Universal newborn eye screening at delivery points and at SNCUs provides a unique opportunity to identify and manage significant eye diseases in babies who would otherwise appear healthy to their parents. I wish that State and UTs would benefit from the ‘Guidelines for Universal Eye Screening in Newborns including Retinopathy of Prematurity’ and in supporting our future generation by providing them with disease free eyes and good quality vision to help them in their overall growth including scholastic achievement.
    [Show full text]
  • Trichiasis in Cryotherapy, the Treated Part of the Lid Can Appear Whitish in Colour
    Are there any risks or complications? It is likely that the lashes will grow again and scarring may be a problem. Trichiasis In cryotherapy, the treated part of the lid can appear whitish in colour. What is trichiasis? What should I do if it recurs? Trichiasis is an uncomfortable condition in which your eye lashes Please make an appointment with your GP. grow inwards and irritate your eyeball, scratching its surface. What is the cause? The most common cause is chronic inflammation, with scarring of the lower eyelid. This can be caused by infection, skin disease or injury to your eyelid. How is it treated? The eye lashes can be removed using forceps (epilation). This only provides temporary relief as the lashes re-grow. Permanent relief can be obtained by destroying the lash follicle using electrolysis or cryosurgery. Electrolysis is a method in which an electric current is used to kill the cells that produce the hair. Cryosurgery is a newer method where the area is frozen, killing the hair follicles. Is the treatment painful? The lower eyelid is numbed by an injection of local anaesthetic before the electrolysis treatment takes place. This may be slightly painful. Are there any side effects? If you would like this leaflet in large print, braille, audio version Swelling of the eyelid and redness is common for a few days but the or in another language, please contact the General Office on lid should soon return to normal quite quickly. There may be a small notch in the lid contour afterwards. 01872 252690 RCHT 639 © RCHT Design & Publications 2003 Continued overleaf..
    [Show full text]
  • A Study of Prevalence of Dry Eye in Relation to Trachoma
    Original Research Article DOI: 10.18231/2395-1451.2017.0084 A study of prevalence of dry eye in relation to trachoma Dipak B. Patel1,*, Jyotindra N. Brahmbhatta2, Hemal V. Jasani3, Aditya P. Desai4, Parin K. Mehta5 1Professor, 4,5Resident Doctor, SBKS Medical Institute & Research Centre, Vadodara, Gujarat, 2Professor, CU Shah Medical College, Surendranagar, Gujarat, 3Cataract & Refractive Surgery, Dept. Ophthalmology, Netradeep Eye Hospital, Rajkot, Gujarat *Corresponding Author: Email: [email protected] Abstract Introduction: Dry eye disease is a multifactorial disorder of the tear film due to tear deficiency or excessive tear evaporation, which causes damage to the ocular surface leading to tear film instability and is associated with visual disturbances and symptoms of ocular discomfort. The prevalence of dry eye ranging from 5 to 35% Worldwide, while in India it is 29.25% based on OSDI data. Trachoma is the leading cause of infectious blindness worldwide. Destructive nature of trachoma causes dry eye in its chronic course. Materials and Methods: Total 100 patients were included in the cross-sectional study in the duration of one-year duration from February 2010 to February 2011 at Dhiraj General Hospital. They were subjected to slit-lamp biomicroscopy, Schirmer’s test I and TBUT. Prevalence of trachoma in diagnosed cases of dry eye was also studied. Results: Prevalence of dry eye during 2010-11 was 17.77%. Amongst them, the prevalence of trachoma was 5%. Mean age of patients was 44.7±14.09 years. Discussion: Dry eye is leading cause of ocular discomfort in OPD patients. Prevalence of dry eye increases with age.
    [Show full text]
  • Loss of Vision and Hearing
    Chapter 50 Loss of Vision and Hearing Joseph Cook, Kevin D. Frick, Rob Baltussen, Serge Resnikoff, Andrew Smith, Jeffrey Mecaskey, and Peter Kilima Although the loss of vision and hearing has multiple causes, account uncorrected refractive errors, but this change has not and the burden of these diseases is complex, three major points yet been approved. emerge from the outset: The major causes of adult-onset blindness are cataract (47.8 percent), glaucoma (12.3 percent), macular degeneration • Impairments of the essential senses of vision and hearing (8.7 percent), diabetic retinopathy (4.8 percent), trachoma contribute to early demise and are important causes of mor- (3.6 percent), and onchocerciasis (0.8 percent). Uncorrected bidity for individuals who are blind or deaf. refractive errors are also a major cause of morbidity related to • Cost-effective interventions are available to address several vision, but this type of disability is not included in the global causes of these burdens now. burden of disease by definition. It has been estimated to be on • The number of cost-effectiveness analyses of interventions the order of 15 percent of the total blind population and could to preserve hearing or vision in developing countries is quite add 50 percent to the low-vision population. However, there limited. are no published data to do more than speculate. The major causes of childhood vision loss have marked Table 50.1 summarizes the conditions causing the sensory regional variations. They include vitamin A deficiency (xeroph- deficits, the proposed interventions and sites of delivery, and thalmia) and ophthalmia neonatorum in low-income coun- the cost and effectiveness of these interventions to the extent of tries, retinopathy of prematurity and hereditary conditions in current knowledge.
    [Show full text]