Eradicating blinding trachoma: What is working?

Trachoma remains the leading cause of preventable corneal blindness in developing countries. The disease is contracted in early childhood by repeated infection of the ocular surface by C. trachomatis. Initial clinical manifestation is a follicular conjunctivitis which if not treated on timely basis, may lead to conjunctival and eyelid scarring that may eventually result in corneal scarring and loss of vision. Over the past two decades, a remarkable reduction in the prevalence of active trachoma has occurred due to the World Health Organization’s (WHOs) program GET 2020 for the elimination of trachoma with adoption of the SAFE strategy incorporating Surgery, Antibiotic treatment, Facial cleanliness and Environmental hygiene. However, patients who already had infection at young age may present with adnexal-related complications of trachomatous scarring that may cause corneal scarring and visual loss. These patients may present with evidence of trichiasis/ entropion as well as eyelid retraction. Lacrimal complications may include nasolacrimal-duct obstruction, dacryocystitis and canaliculitis requiring intervention. In addition to the increased risk for corneal scarring, trichiasis/entropion may further increase the risks for microbial keratitis in patients who may have unrecognized dacryocystitis and canaliculitis. Female patients may have more trachomtous-related complications and may present at an early age. Available evidence indicates that SAFE strategy may be effective and on the right track towards achieving GET 2020 goal for the eradication of trachoma.