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[Trachoma is still a pediatric disease]
1Service d'ophtalmologie, hôpital de Bicêtre, assistance publique-hôpitaux de Paris, 94275 Le-Kremlin-Bicêtre cedex, France. marc.labetoulle@bct.ap-hop-paris.fr
Summary
Trachoma, a bacterial eye infection, causes blindness through corneal scarring. The S.A.F.E. strategy (Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial hygiene, Environment) aims for global elimination, despite challenges with antibiotic costs.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Context:
- Trachoma is a leading cause of preventable blindness globally, particularly in developing nations.
- Caused by Chlamydia trachomatis serotypes A-C, infection in childhood leads to adult vision-threatening complications like corneal opacification.
- Despite a significant reduction in cases, 83 million people still suffer from active trachoma, necessitating treatment for 490 million.
Purpose:
- To outline the global burden and impact of trachoma.
- To discuss the S.A.F.E. strategy as the primary intervention for trachoma control and elimination.
- To highlight the challenges and potential for achieving the WHO's goal of Global Elimination of Trachoma.
Summary:
- Trachoma, a chronic conjunctivitis, results in corneal scarring and vision loss due to Chlamydia trachomatis.
- The S.A.F.E. strategy involves surgery for trichiasis, antibiotic treatment, facial cleanliness, and environmental improvements.
- Oral azithromycin is the preferred antibiotic, but cost remains a barrier in resource-limited settings.
Impact:
- The S.A.F.E. strategy, when implemented comprehensively, offers a viable pathway to the World Health Organization's goal of trachoma elimination.
- Addressing the cost of antibiotics is crucial for the successful mass distribution and effectiveness of treatment programs.
- Effective trachoma control programs can prevent millions of cases of blindness and improve quality of life in affected regions.