Ophthalmia Neonatorum

 Ophthalmia Neonatorum

Ophthalmia Neonatorum also known as neonatal conjunctivitis, defined as any purulent discharge from eye of infant within 21 days of birth.

Etiology

1. The causes of ophthalmia neonatrum including; 

Staphylococcus albus

Staphylococcus aureus

Chamydia trachomatis

Neisseria gonorrhoea

2. Gonococcal ophthalmia 

Caused by direct eye contact of eyes with infected material in birth passage of mother during birth process.

Diagnostic Evaluation

1. Birth history of neonates

2. Swab taken from discharge of eye, for culture and sensitivity.

Treatment

1. Prescribed antibiotic eye drops or ointments

Prophylactic eye drop installed.

2. Chloramphenicol commonly used

3. For Chlamydia infection Erythromycin or Gentamicin used

4. For Pseudomonas aeruginosa Polymixin used.

Eye Care

Infected eye or eyes are cleaned with sterile swabs, moistened with normal saline.

Each swab must used one once (one stroke).

Wipping from inner canthus to outer canthus.

Appropriate antibiotic drops or ointments are installed; repeated at least 4 hourly.

Prevention

Mother should be free from gonorrhoea infection.

Prophylactic eye drops administered.