OPHTHALMIA NEONATORUM

OPHTHALMIA NEONATORUM - previously an important cause of impaired vision or blindness, now rare due to better hygiene, good antenatal supervision and efficient treatment of venereal disease; but it may occur when these factors are deficient. Forms for a "Notifiable Disease" need completion.

The most severe cases occurred from Neiseria gonorrhoea; the more moderate from chlamycia (TRIC), and common bacteria.

These cases can be highly infectious and extreme care must be taken. Be most careful lest splashes of pus occur when the eyelids are opened. Corneas may be ruptured by forcibly opening the eyelids.

SIGNS:

• Swollen eyelids
• Purulent discharge
• Corneal clouding or ulceration

TREATMENT:

Smear and culture, but begin intensive treatment while awaiting results.

Benzylpenicillin extemporaneous irrigation with Normal Saline (irrigate freely and

frequently until pus stops forming, continue 4 to 6 hours, then use eyedrops as indicated.

The mother will need investigation and treatment.

ROUTINE EYE CARE AFTER BIRTH - cleansing the eyelids only with sterile water and

swabs.