OPHTHALMIA NEONATORUM

Definition: conjunctival inflammation developing within the first month of life.

Etiology

1. gonococcus

2. chlamydia 

3. pneumococcus

4. herpes simplex virus

Symptoms

1. discharge within first week

2. conjunctiva is bright red and swollen

3. thick pus at eye lid margins

4. sticking together of eye lids

Signs

1. lid edema

2. conjunctiva is congested and chemosed

3. pus at lid margins

Complications in untreated cases

1. corneal ulcer

2. corneal perforation

3. adherent leucoma

4. nystagmus in case of corneal opacity

Treatment

1. antibiotic eye drops

2. antibiotic ointment

3. lid hygiene  

4. washing with normal saline

5. systemic antibiotics or antiviral as is the cause

   • in case of systemic involvement in co-ordination with pediatrician 

Differential diagnosis 

1. congenital NLD block

2. congenital glaucoma

prophylaxis

1. aseptic delivery 

2. treatment of any vaginal discharge

3. use of topical antibiotic immediately after delivery