2. Basic Definition
Tachoma is a serious infection of the eye
cause by the bacteria Chlamydiae
trachomitis. If left untreated it can lead to
blindness and severe scarring of the
eyelids.
3. Symptoms
Cloudy Cornea
Discharge from Eye
Swelling of the Lymph Nodes in Front of the
Ears
Swollen Eyelids
Turned in Eyelids
Symptoms take 5-12 days to appear after
infection
4. Causes
Contact with contaminated eyes, nose or
throat secretions
Direct contact with contaminated objects
such as towels
Facial contact with certain species of
flies
5. Prevention and Treatment
Prevention
Proper Sanitation
Avoiding Sharing Objects that Come in
Contact with the Face and/or Eyes
Keep Flies Away From the Face
Treatment
Antibiotics to Prevent Long Term
Complications
Surgery to Prevent or Fix Scars
6. Risk Factors and Incidence
Most Commonly Infected: Children
Most Affected Area Globally: Rural Areas
in Developing Nations
Extremely Rare in United States
7. History
Dates back to 1900 BC
Described by Egyptians
Discussed and/or Researched by:
Isa, an 11th Century Arab Physician
Ancient Greek Physicians
8. In Conclusion…
Trachoma is a very serious disease but it
is yet to have a true cure. Millions of
people around the world are blind
because of Trachoma and nothing exists
to fix their vision. Although Trachoma is
not fatal it is still a serious problem that
needs equally serious attention.
