Neonatal conjunctivitis (ophthalmia neonatorum)

Question 1

Features

Answer 1

This is conjunctivitis in an infant less than 1 month old

• is a notifiable disease

Chlamydial and gonococcal infections are uncommon

• but must be considered if a purulent discharge is found in the first few days of life.

Chlamydia trachomatis

• usually presents 1 or 2 wks after delivery,
• with moderate mucopurulent discharge.

Question 2

Treatment

Answer 2

Rx is with oral azithromycin daily for 3 days and local sulfacetamide.

For N. gonorrhoeae conjunctivitis:

usually occurs within 1 or 2 days of delivery

requires vigorous treatment with:

• intravenous cephalosporins
• or penicillin
• and local sulfacetamide drops.