[Gonococcal conjunctivitis in a young woman].

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Gonococcal conjunctivitis is a rare but potentially blinding sexually transmitted disease.
• Its incidence is increasing globally, paralleling the resurgence of gonococcal infections.
• General practitioners and ophthalmologists require greater awareness of this condition.

Observation:

• A female patient presented with unilateral purulent conjunctivitis.
• Clinical presentation and Gram stain suggested Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
• The isolated strain was resistant to penicillin and tetracycline.

Findings:

• Successful management involved eye lavage, systemic erythromycin, and topical azithromycin.
• Topical steroids were used for persistent hyperemia, later replaced by azithromycin due to recurrent discharge.
• Complete cure was achieved in 11 days without sequelae.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of gonococcal conjunctivitis.
• Rising antimicrobial resistance necessitates careful therapeutic choices.
• Early intervention is key to preventing vision loss and interrupting disease transmission.