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Published on: October 31, 2010
Ocular infections in sub-Saharan Africa in the context of high HIV prevalence
Erik Schaftenaar1, Eric C M van Gorp, Christina Meenken
1Department of Viroscience, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, Tzaneen, South Africa; Rotterdam Eye Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Healthy eyes and good vision are important determinants of populations' health across the globe. Sub-Saharan Africa is affected by simultaneous epidemics of ocular infections and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Ocular infection and its complications, along with cataract and ocular trauma, are common conditions in this region with great impact on daily life. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, clinical manifestations and microbial aetiology of the most important infectious ocular conditions in sub-Saharan Africa: conjunctivitis, keratitis and uveitis. We focus specifically on the potential association of these infections with HIV infection, including immune recovery uveitis. Finally, challenges and opportunities for clinical management are discussed, and recommendations made to improve care in this neglected but very important clinical field.
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