Gonococcal conjunctivitis

Gonococcal conjunctivitis, also known as gonococcal ophthalmia, is a severe bacterial infection of the conjunctiva (the thin membrane lining the inner eyelids and the white of the eye) caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium responsible for gonorrhea. This condition is not a genetic disorder but rather an infectious disease that can affect both neonates and adults. In newborns, it is referred to as ophthalmia neonatorum when caused by gonococcal infection, typically acquired during passage through an infected birth canal. In adults, it is usually transmitted through direct contact with infected genital secretions. Gonococcal conjunctivitis is characterized by a hyperacute onset with severe purulent (pus-filled) discharge, marked conjunctival redness and swelling (chemosis), eyelid edema, and tenderness. The condition is considered an ophthalmologic emergency because, if left untreated, it can rapidly progress to corneal ulceration, corneal perforation, endophthalmitis, and potentially permanent vision loss or blindness. The infection primarily affects the ocular system but may be associated with concurrent gonococcal infection at other sites, including the genitourinary tract. Treatment requires prompt systemic antibiotic therapy, typically with intramuscular or intravenous ceftriaxone, often combined with topical antibiotic eye drops or ointments and frequent saline irrigation of the affected eye. Neonatal prophylaxis with topical antibiotic eye ointment (such as erythromycin) applied shortly after birth has significantly reduced the incidence of gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum in many countries. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to preventing serious complications. Sexual partners of affected adults should also be evaluated and treated for gonorrhea.

Common questions about Gonococcal conjunctivitis