Sexually transmitted diseases profile of patients with chlamydial conjunctivitis

During 1980-85, 1648 patients with conjunctivitis attended an Eye Hospital in Liverpool. Of these, 195 had proven chlamydial infection. On referral, only 68 adults and 27 children of this group, and 66 adults as 'contacts' attended the Sexually Transmitted Diseases Clinic. Screening tests detected a significant number of STD's among the adults. Though asymptomatic, a large proportion of them had chlamydia a potential pathogen, in their genital tract. The need for such a referral, full S.T.D. screening and appropriate systemic treatment to prevent some of the sequele of untreated chlamydial infection are emphasised.