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Neonatal conjunctivitis: a profile
M Verma1, J Chhatwal, P V Varughese
1Department of Pediatrics, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana.
Indian Pediatrics
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Neonatal conjunctivitis, a common newborn infection, often occurs postnatally. Topical chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin) eye drops effectively treat most cases, with oral erythromycin for resistant infections.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Neonatal conjunctivitis is a frequent newborn infection.
- Routine prophylactic ocular medication was not administered in this study.
- Diagnosis was based on purulent eye discharge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and causative organisms of neonatal conjunctivitis.
- To evaluate treatment efficacy of chloramphenicol eye drops.
- To identify risk factors associated with neonatal conjunctivitis.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of newborns over one year.
- Collection of eye swabs from neonates and maternal vaginal/cervical swabs for culture.
- Treatment with chloramphenicol eye drops, with adjustments based on sensitivity or gentamicin for non-responders.
Main Results:
- Conjunctivitis incidence was 7.2%, with peaks in February and May-June.
- 91.6% of cases developed within the first week of life.
- Prolonged rupture of membranes significantly increased incidence (p < 0.01).
- Staphylococcus aureus was the most common ocular isolate (35.2%).
- E. coli was the most frequent vaginal/cervical isolate.
- Chloramphenicol showed good response (96.5% effective).
Conclusions:
- Neonatal conjunctivitis is predominantly acquired postnatally.
- Topical chloramphenicol is an effective first-line treatment.
- Oral erythromycin is recommended for resistant cases, potentially covering chlamydial infections.