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Wolle MA, Misra N, Naufal F, Saheb Kashaf M, Munoz BE, Mkocha H, Funga N, West SK. The Association Between the Severity of Trachomatous Scarring and Trachomatous Trichiasis Severity in Surgical Patients in Tanzania. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2024; 31:561-567. [PMID: 37476930 PMCID: PMC10799962 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2023.2238090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the association between the severity of trachomatous conjunctival scarring (TS) of the upper eyelid conjunctiva and trachomatous trichiasis (TT) severity in TT surgical patients. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted amongst adults with TT who were referred to surgical camps in Bahi District, Tanzania, for TT surgery. Participants underwent ocular examination. The presence and severity of TS was evaluated in photographs of the everted upper eyelid. TT severity was assessed at the time of the ocular exam based on the number of lashes touching the globe and/or evidence and extent of epilation. Ordinal logistic models were used to examine the association between the severity of TS and TT severity. RESULTS A total of 627 eyes of 388 participants were included. Mean age was 65 years (ranging from 21-98), 81% were females, and 62% had bilateral TT. 93% of eyes with any TT had at least moderate TS; 62% of eyes had severe TS. An increase in TS severity was associated with an increase in the severity of TT. Using as a reference eyes with none to mild TS, in eyes with moderate TS the odds of increased severity of TT was 1.30 (95% CI 0.67-2.51), in eyes with severe TS the odds was 4.20 (95% CI 2.23-7.92). CONCLUSION In cases of trachomatous trichiasis presenting for surgery, the severity of TT was significantly associated with the severity of TS with almost all cases of TT having moderate or severe scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meraf A. Wolle
- Dana Center for Preventive Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Neha Misra
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Fahd Naufal
- Dana Center for Preventive Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Michael Saheb Kashaf
- Dana Center for Preventive Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Beatriz E. Munoz
- Dana Center for Preventive Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Harran Mkocha
- Kongwa Trachoma Project, Kongwa, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Nicodemus Funga
- Kongwa Trachoma Project, Kongwa, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Sheila K. West
- Dana Center for Preventive Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Cochrane GM, Mangot M, Houinei W, Susapu M, Cama A, Le Mesurier R, Webster S, Hillgrove T, Barton J, Butcher R, Harding-Esch EM, Mabey D, Bakhtiari A, Müller A, Yajima A, Solomon AW, Kaldor J, Koim SP, Ko R, Garap J. Corneal pannus, Herbert's pits and conjunctival inflammation in older children in Papua New Guinea. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2024; 31:518-525. [PMID: 38329811 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2023.2273507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The prevalence of trachomatous inflammation-follicular (TF) in Papua New Guinea (PNG) suggests antibiotic mass drug administration (MDA) is needed to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem but the burden of trichiasis is low. As a result, WHO issued bespoke recommendations for the region. If ≥ 20% of 10-14-year-olds have both any conjunctival scarring (C1 or C2 or C3) and corneal pannus and/or Herbert's pits, MDA should be continued. Equally, if ≥ 5% of that group have both moderate/severe conjunctival scarring (C2 or C3) and corneal pannus and/or Herbert's pits, MDA should be continued. METHODS We identified 14 villages where > 20% of 1-9-year-olds had TF during baseline mapping undertaken 4 years and 1 month previously. Every child aged 10-14 years in those villages was eligible to be examined for clinical signs of corneal pannus, Herbert's pits and conjunctival scarring. A grading system that built on existing WHO grading systems was used. RESULTS Of 1,293 resident children, 1,181 (91%) were examined. Of 1,178 with complete examination data, only one (0.08%) individual had concurrent scarring and limbal signs. CONCLUSIONS The WHO-predefined criteria for continuation of MDA were not met. Ongoing behavioural and environmental improvement aspects of the SAFE strategy may contribute to integrated NTD control. Surveillance methods should be strengthened to enable PNG health authorities to identify future changes in disease prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Magdelene Mangot
- National Prevention of Blindness Committee, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - Wendy Houinei
- National Department of Health, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - Melinda Susapu
- National Department of Health, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Robert Butcher
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK
| | - Emma M Harding-Esch
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK
| | - David Mabey
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK
| | - Ana Bakhtiari
- International Trachoma Initiative,Task Force for Global Health, Atlanta, USA
| | - Andreas Müller
- Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Aya Yajima
- Division of Programmes for Disease Control, Western Pacific Regional Office, World Health Organization, Manila, Philippines
| | - Anthony W Solomon
- Global Neglected Tropical Diseases Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - John Kaldor
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Robert Ko
- National Department of Health, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - Jambi Garap
- National Prevention of Blindness Committee, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
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3
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Cerrada I, Leiva M, Vilao R, Peña T, Ríos J. Follicular conjunctivitis in dogs: A retrospective study (2007-2022). Vet Ophthalmol 2024; 27:310-317. [PMID: 37850538 DOI: 10.1111/vop.13155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the incidence, clinical features, treatment, and outcome of canine follicular conjunctivitis (CFC). PROCEDURE Medical records of dogs diagnosed with CFC were reviewed. Data recorded included signalment, duration of clinical signs and treatment details prior to presentation, concurrent ocular/systemic diseases, ocular clinical signs, cytology, treatment, follow-up, and outcome. Blepharospasm, signs of self-trauma, hyperemia, chemosis, ocular discharge, and follicle location and severity (0.5-4) were retrospectively evaluated. Based on severity, treatment consisted of topical 0.1% diclofenac or 0.1% dexamethasone sodium eyedrops. Dogs were classified into young (YD < 18 months) and adult (AD ≥ 18 months). RESULTS One hundred and fifty-three dogs (276 eyes) were included in the study: 83YD (54%) and 70AD (46%). Males and bilateral disease were over-represented in both groups. Severity was associated with young age (p = .032) and bilaterality (p = .025), and not with dermatological diseases (p > .05). No differences in follicular location were observed except for more frequent involvement of the nictitating membrane (MN) in YD (p = .02). Response to treatment was faster in AD (p = .001), with complete resolution in 80.6% of the eyes (100/124) at 1 month. YD treated with diclofenac showed faster resolution than those treated with 0.1% dexamethasone (p = .009). CONCLUSIONS Although CFC is a bilateral ocular disease occurring at any age, the clinical presentation is influenced by age. Follicular conjunctivitis in adult dogs is less sever, less commonly affects the NM, and responds more quickly to topical treatment. One month of topical diclofenac may be adequate for mild cases, and 1 month of topical 0.1% dexamethasone is recommended as initial therapy for moderate to severely affected cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Cerrada
- Servei d'Oftalmologia, Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Marta Leiva
- Servei d'Oftalmologia, Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Rita Vilao
- Servei d'Oftalmologia, Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Teresa Peña
- Servei d'Oftalmologia, Fundació Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Jose Ríos
- Laboratory of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
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Gupta N, Vashist P, Meel R, Grover S, Jain S, Kumar D, Gupta V, Tandon R, Solomon AW. Prospective audit of the phenotype, causes and correlates of trachomatous and non- trachomatous trichiasis in a peri-elimination setting. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0011014. [PMID: 36574461 PMCID: PMC9829166 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the burden, clinical features and associations of trichiasis due to trachomatous and non-trachomatous aetiologies. METHODS Consenting patients presenting with trichiasis of either eyelid (of one or both eyes) attending the outpatient department, cornea and oculoplasty clinics of a tertiary eye care hospital in New Delhi between August 2018 to March 2020 were included. A comprehensive examination including visual acuity and anterior segment evaluation and photography was performed. Grade of trichiasis, laterality, presence and grade of entropion, and information on corneal opacity, conjunctival scarring, Herbert's pits, and pannus, if present, were recorded in the case record form. RESULTS Overall, 302 patients (454 eyes) with trichiasis were recruited. The most common attributed cause of upper eyelid trichiasis (276 patients, 405 eyes) was trachoma (26% of patients), followed by Stevens-Johnson syndrome (23%), blepharokeratoconjunctivitis (17%) and old age (10%). A total of 296/405 eyes (73%) had some form of corneal involvement. Trachoma was not identified as the cause of trichiasis in any eye with lower eyelid-only disease. CONCLUSION Only about a quarter of upper eyelid trichiasis in this peri-elimination setting was attributed to trachoma. A distinction between trachomatous and non-trachomatous trichiasis is imperative to meaningfully determine whether elimination of trachoma as a public health problem has occurred. These data may have implications for population-based estimates of TT prevalence in India and other peri-elimination settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noopur Gupta
- Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgery Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
- * E-mail:
| | - Praveen Vashist
- Community Ophthalmology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rachna Meel
- Oculoplasty Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sumit Grover
- Community Ophthalmology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Shubhi Jain
- Community Ophthalmology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Deepak Kumar
- Community Ophthalmology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Community Ophthalmology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Radhika Tandon
- Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgery Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Anthony W. Solomon
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Ying PX, Fu M, Huang C, Li ZH, Mao QY, Fu S, Jia XH, Cao YC, Hong LB, Cai LY, Guo X, Liu RB, Meng FK, Yi GG. Profile of biological characterizations and clinical application of corneal stem/progenitor cells. World J Stem Cells 2022; 14:777-797. [PMID: 36483848 PMCID: PMC9724387 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v14.i11.777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal stem/progenitor cells are typical adult stem/progenitor cells. The human cornea covers the front of the eyeball, which protects the eye from the outside environment while allowing vision. The location and function demand the cornea to maintain its transparency and to continuously renew its epithelial surface by replacing injured or aged cells through a rapid turnover process in which corneal stem/progenitor cells play an important role. Corneal stem/progenitor cells include mainly corneal epithelial stem cells, corneal endothelial cell progenitors and corneal stromal stem cells. Since the discovery of corneal epithelial stem cells (also known as limbal stem cells) in 1971, an increasing number of markers for corneal stem/progenitor cells have been proposed, but there is no consensus regarding the definitive markers for them. Therefore, the identification, isolation and cultivation of these cells remain challenging without a unified approach. In this review, we systematically introduce the profile of biological characterizations, such as anatomy, characteristics, isolation, cultivation and molecular markers, and clinical applications of the three categories of corneal stem/progenitor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Xi Ying
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Min Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chang Huang
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Zhi-Hong Li
- Department of Cardiology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Shock and Microcirculation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510550, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qing-Yi Mao
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sheng Fu
- Hengyang Medical School, The University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xu-Hui Jia
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yu-Chen Cao
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li-Bing Hong
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li-Yang Cai
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xi Guo
- Medical College of Rehabilitation, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ru-Bing Liu
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fan-ke Meng
- Emergency Department, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guo-Guo Yi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, Guangdong Province, China
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Solomon AW, Kello AB, Bangert M, West SK, Taylor HR, Tekeraoi R, Foster A. The simplified trachoma grading system, amended. Bull World Health Organ 2020; 98:698-705. [PMID: 33177759 PMCID: PMC7652564 DOI: 10.2471/blt.19.248708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A simplified grading system for trachoma was published by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1987. Intended for use by non-specialist personnel working at community level, the system includes five signs, each of which can be present or absent in any eye: (i) trachomatous trichiasis; (ii) corneal opacity; (iii) trachomatous inflammation—follicular; (iv) trachomatous inflammation—intense; and (v) trachomatous scarring. Though neither perfectly sensitive nor perfectly specific for trachoma, these signs have been essential tools for identifying populations that need interventions to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem. In 2018, at WHO’s 4th global scientific meeting on trachoma, the definition of one of the signs, trachomatous trichiasis, was amended to exclude trichiasis that affects only the lower eyelid. This paper presents the amended system, updates its presentation, offers notes on its use and identifies areas of ongoing debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony W Solomon
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | - Amir B Kello
- World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Mathieu Bangert
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | - Sheila K West
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America
| | - Hugh R Taylor
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rabebe Tekeraoi
- Eye Department, Ministry of Health and Medical Services, South Tarawa, Kiribati
| | - Allen Foster
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England
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7
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Butcher R, Tagabasoe J, Manemaka J, Bong A, Garae M, Daniel L, Roberts C, Handley BL, Hu VH, Harding-Esch EM, Bakhtiari A, Willis R, Müller A, Kaldor J, Le Mesurier R, Mabey D, Cama A, Sokana O, Taleo F, Taylor HR, Solomon AW. Conjunctival scarring, corneal pannus and Herbert's pits in adolescent children in trachoma-endemic populations of the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 73:e2773-e2780. [PMID: 32776137 PMCID: PMC8563182 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, the sign trachomatous inflammation—follicular (TF) is common, but ocular infection with Chlamydia trachomatis is not. It is therefore debatable whether azithromycin mass drug administration (MDA), the recommended antibiotic treatment strategy for trachoma’s elimination as a public health problem, is necessary in this setting. We set out to estimate what proportion of adolescents were at risk of progression of trachomatous scarring. Methods A cross-sectional survey was undertaken of all children aged 10–14 years resident in communities identified as high-TF clusters during previous population-based mapping. Graders examined children for clinical evidence of trachomatous scarring, pannus, and Herbert’s pits (HPs) or limbal follicles in both eyes. A dried blood spot was collected from each child and tested for antibodies to C. trachomatis. Results A total of 492 children in 24 villages of the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu were examined. In total, 35/492 (7%) of children had limbal signs (pannus and/or HPs) plus any conjunctival scarring. And 9/492 (2%) had limbal signs and moderate or severe conjunctival scarring; 22% of children were anti-Pgp3 seropositive. Conclusions Few adolescents here are at risk of future complications from trachoma, supporting the conclusion that further antibiotic MDA is not currently required for trachoma elimination purposes in these settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Butcher
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Junely Tagabasoe
- Eye Department, Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Joseph Manemaka
- Health Promotion Department, Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Annie Bong
- Eye Department, Vanuatu Ministry of Health, Port Vila, Vanuatu
| | - Mackline Garae
- Department of Neglected Tropical Diseases, Vanuatu Ministry of Health, Port Vila, Vanuatu
| | - Lui Daniel
- Eye Department, Vanuatu Ministry of Health, Port Vila, Vanuatu
| | - Chrissy Roberts
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Becca L Handley
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Victor H Hu
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma M Harding-Esch
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Andreas Müller
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Programme for Blindness and Visual Impairment, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - John Kaldor
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - David Mabey
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anasaini Cama
- The Fred Hollows Foundation, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Oliver Sokana
- Eye Department, Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Fasihah Taleo
- Department of Neglected Tropical Diseases, Vanuatu Ministry of Health, Port Vila, Vanuatu.,Country Office, World Health Organization, Port Vila, Vanuatu
| | - Hugh R Taylor
- Indigenous Eye Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anthony W Solomon
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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8
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Ramadhani AM, Derrick T, Holland MJ, Burton MJ. Blinding Trachoma: Systematic Review of Rates and Risk Factors for Progressive Disease. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004859. [PMID: 27483002 PMCID: PMC4970760 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sight loss from trachoma is the end result of a scarring disease process starting in early childhood and characterised by repeated episodes of conjunctival inflammation (active trachoma). Subsequently, the conjunctiva becomes scarred, causing the eyelashes to turn inwards and scratch the cornea (trichiasis), damaging the corneal surface and leading to corneal opacification and visual impairment. It is thought that this process is initiated and driven by repeated infection with Chlamydia trachomatis. We review published longitudinal studies to re-examine the disease process, its progression rates and risk factors. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We searched PubMed for studies presenting incidence and progression data for the different stages of trachoma natural history. We only included studies reporting longitudinal data and identified 11 publications meeting this criterion. The studies were very heterogeneous in design, disease stage, duration, size and location, precluding meta-analysis. Severe conjunctival inflammation was consistently associated with incident and progressive scarring in five studies in which this was examined. One study reported an association between C. trachomatis infection and incident scarring. No studies have yet demonstrated an association between C. trachomatis infection and progressive scarring. Several studies conducted in regions with low prevalence active disease and C. trachomatis infection found evidence of on-going scarring progression. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Overall, there are few longitudinal studies that provide estimates of progression rates and risk factors, reflecting the challenges of conducting such studies. Our understanding of this disease process and the long-term impact of control measures is partial. Intense conjunctival inflammation was consistently associated with scarring, however, direct evidence demonstrating an association between C. trachomatis and progression is limited. This suggests that on-going chlamydial reinfection may not be mandatory for progression of established scarring, indicating that sight threatening trichiasis may continue to evolve in older people in formerly endemic populations, that will require service provision for years after active disease is controlled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athumani M. Ramadhani
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Tamsyn Derrick
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Martin J. Holland
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J. Burton
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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9
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Abstract
The eye is on the one hand dependent on visible light energy and on the other hand can be damaged by these and the contiguous ultraviolet (UV) and infrared wavelengths. Diseases of the eye in which sunlight has been implicated have been termed the ophthalmohelioses, and these conditions pose a significant problem to the eye health of many communities. The ophthalmohelioses have a tremendous impact on patients' quality of life and have significant implications on the cost of health care. Although cataract is not entirely caused by insolation, it now seems certain that sunlight plays a contributory role-cataract extraction is one of the, if not the most, commonly performed surgical procedures in many societies. Pterygium, typically afflicting a younger population, adds a tremendous burden, both human and financial, in many countries. We review evidence that peripheral light focusing by the anterior eye to the sites of usual locations of pterygium and cataract plays a role in the pathogenesis of these conditions. Recognition of the light pathways involved with foci at stem cell niches has directed our investigations into inflammatory and matrix metalloproteinase-related pathophysiologic mechanisms. An understanding of the intracellular mechanisms involved has provided some insight into how medical treatments have been developed for the effective management of ocular surface squamous neoplasia. The concept of peripheral light focusing has also provided direction in the prevention of these diseases. This has resulted in improved sunglass design and the further development of UV-blocking contact lenses. With the development of ocular UV fluorescence photographic techniques, we have been able to demonstrate preclinical ocular surface evidence of solar damage. Evidence that diet may play a role in the development of certain conditions is reviewed. The conundrum of the public health message about solar exposure is also reviewed, and in this context, the potential role of vitamin D deficiency is summarized. The eye may play a role in the development of individualized assessment techniques of solar damage, perhaps allowing us to provide better advice to both individuals and populations.
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10
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Rubenstein JB, Virasch V. Conjunctivitis: Infectious and Noninfectious. Ophthalmology 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-04332-8.00030-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Abstract
Vernal conjunctivitis is a bilateral, seasonal, external ocular inflammatory disease of unknown cause. Afflicted patients experience intense itching, tearing, photophobia, and mucous discharge, and usually demonstrate large cobblestone papillae on their superior tarsal conjunctiva and limbal conjunctiva. It primarily affects children, may be related to atopy, and has environmental and racial predilections. Although usually self-limited, vernal conjunctivitis can result in potentially blinding corneal complications. Treatment of chronic forms of ocular allergies may necessitate collaborative efforts between the ophthalmologist and the allergist or immunologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Jun
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Natividad A, Wilson J, Koch O, Holland MJ, Rockett K, Faal N, Jallow O, Joof HM, Burton MJ, Alexander NDE, Kwiatkowski DP, Mabey DCW, Bailey RL. Risk of trachomatous scarring and trichiasis in Gambians varies with SNP haplotypes at the interferon-gamma and interleukin-10 loci. Genes Immun 2005; 6:332-40. [PMID: 15789056 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gene.6364182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Experimental evidence implicates interferon gamma (IFNgamma) in protection from and resolution of chlamydial infection. Conversely, interleukin 10 (IL10) is associated with susceptibility and persistence of infection and pathology. We studied genetic variation within the IL10 and IFNgamma loci in relation to the risk of developing severe complications of human ocular Chlamydia trachomatis infection. A total of 651 Gambian subjects with scarring trachoma, of whom 307 also had potentially blinding trichiasis and pair-matched controls with normal eyelids, were screened for associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), SNP haplotypes and the risk of disease. MassEXTEND (Sequenom) and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry were used for detection and analysis of SNPs and the programs PHASE and SNPHAP used to infer haplotypes from population genetic data. Multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis identified IL10 and IFNgamma SNP haplotypes associated with increased risk of both trachomatous scarring and trichiasis. SNPs in putative IFNgamma and IL10 regulatory regions lay within the disease-associated haplotypes. The IFNgamma +874A allele, previously linked to lower IFNgamma production, lies in the IFNgamma risk haplotype and was more common among cases than controls, but not significantly so. The promoter IL10-1082G allele, previously associated with high IL10 expression, is in both susceptibility and resistance haplotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Natividad
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London University, London, UK.
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Abstract
Trachoma is the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that approximately 5.9 million persons are blind or have severe vision-loss as a result of trachoma, and another 10 million are at high risk. Trachoma preferentially affects the most deprived communities, and within these communities, women and children bear the brunt of the burden. In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on research and heightened enthusiasm for strengthening trachoma control programs in afflicted countries. WHO has convened an alliance of member countries, non-governmental organizations, and other partners for the Global Elimination of Blinding Trachoma by the year 2020, and endorsed the multi-faceted SAFE strategy for trachoma control. SAFE-Surgery, Antibiotics, Face-washing, and Environmental improvement-has incorporated sound research on elements likely to reduce trachoma, and trachomatis blindness, in endemic communities. This review summarizes current knowledge about trachoma and its causative agent, Chlamydia trachomatis, the epidemiology and risk factors for trachoma as a prelude to reviewing the SAFE strategy. While ongoing research to support the knowledge base for SAFE must continue to be a priority, the full implementation of SAFE is the best hope for countries to reduce the global burden of blindness from this preventable cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila K West
- Dana Center for Preventive Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Wilmer Room 129, 600 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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Frick KD, Mecaskey JW. Resource allocation to prevent trachomatous low vision among older individuals in rural areas of less developed countries. Doc Ophthalmol 2002; 105:1-21. [PMID: 12152798 DOI: 10.1023/a:1015767415795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Trachomatous low vision can be prevented by treating or preventing infection or through surgery to treat trichiasis. Resource allocation to prevent trachomatous low vision should be directed to those interventions that are the most cost-effective. In order to assess which of many potential interventions are the more cost-effective, data on the epidemiology of the disease, the effectiveness of community- and facility-based interventions, and the cost of the interventions are required. This paper provides a stylized model of the path from risk of infection through disease to trachomatous low vision or blindness that delineates the points at which interventions may occur and for which data are required. The literature reveals a considerable amount of data regarding the epidemiology of the trachoma and its sequelae but little on the effectiveness of community-based interventions and only one study that measured costs directly. More data are needed to assist policy makers and international program partners who seek to make efficient resource allocation decisions in an effort to eliminate trachoma as a cause of incident blindness in the developing countries in which trachomatous blindness remains prevalent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin D Frick
- Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205-1901, USA.
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Abstract
Chlamydiae are obligate intracellular bacterial pathogens of eukaryotic cells responsible for a wide variety of important human and animal infections. In humans, chlamydial infections are generally localised to superficial epithelial or mucosal surfaces, are frequently asymptomatic and may persist for long periods of time if untreated, inducing little protective immunity. Nevertheless, neutralising antibodies of limited efficacy are produced against the main chlamydial outer envelope protein, while gamma interferon (IFN gamma) is chlamydiastatic and paradoxically may play a role both in chlamydial persistence and in protective immunity. Delayed hypersensitivity responses to chlamydiae caused by repeated or persistent infection are thought to be important in the development of the severe scarring sequelae characteristic of cicatricial trachoma and of chronic salpingitis. Chlamydial heat shock proteins bearing close homology with their human equivalents may be major targets for immunopathological responses and their expression is upregulated in IFN gamma induced persistent infection. C. pneumoniae, a common cause of acute respiratory infection in humans, may persist in coronary arteries and is strongly implicated as a risk factor in atherosclerosis and in acute myocardial infarction. This paper reviews the immunology and immunopathology of chlamydial infections in the context of the unique biology of this fascinating but challenging group of organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Ward
- Molecular Microbiology Group, Southampton University Medical School, Southhampton General Hospital, England
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