Ophthalmia Neonatorum - needs cross link
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Description
Ophthalmia Neonatorum is inflammation of the conjunctiva in the neonatal period due to infection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Non-gonococcal conjunctivitis is due to Chlamydia trachomatis, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Signs and Symptoms
• Purulent, copious eye discharge usually in both eyes
• Itching and redness are also present
• The neonate may also present with septicaemia with fever, rash and joint swelling.
Investigations
This is confirmed by taking an eye swab for culturing for Gonorrhoea.
Treatment
Refer to the Table 129 under adult genito-urinary conditions.
Note: The use of antibiotic eye ointments in gonococcal conjunctivitis is of no documented benefit. Systemic treatment is recommended for all symptomatic cases. The baby’s mother and partner(s) should receive syndromic treatment for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. Breastfeeding mothers should be given Gentamicin and not Ciprofloxacin for gonorrhoea but for Chlamydia give Erythromycin