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Conjunctival microbial flora in leprosy
1Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Opthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.
Abstract:
Conjunctival sacs of seventy-one leprosy patients, paramedical and medical personnel working in a Leprosy Home were cultured. None of these eyes had any pathology of the outer eye. Surprisingly, 46.2% of the culturally positive eyes carried accepted pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus being the commonest. Determining the preoperative bacterial flora and their elimination before undertaking intraocular surgery is recommended.
Insights
Culturing the conjunctival sacs of 71 individuals at a Leprosy Home revealed a high prevalence of bacterial pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus. Preoperative bacterial assessment and elimination are recommended before eye surgeries.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The ocular surface harbors a complex microbiome.
- Understanding bacterial flora is crucial for preventing surgical site infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of bacterial pathogens in the conjunctival sacs of individuals associated with a leprosy home.
- To assess the potential risk of infection before intraocular surgery.
Main Methods:
- Conjunctival swabs were collected from 71 leprosy patients and staff.
- Cultures were analyzed to identify bacterial species.
- Ocular health was assessed for external pathologies.
Main Results:
- 46.2% of cultured eyes yielded accepted bacterial pathogens.
- Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently identified pathogen.
- No external ocular pathologies were observed in the study population.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of individuals harbor potentially pathogenic bacteria on their conjunctiva.
- Preoperative screening and eradication of bacteria are recommended to minimize infection risk during intraocular surgery.