WHO Classification of Trachoma

 The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a classification system for trachoma, a type of eye infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Trachoma is the leading cause of infectious blindness in the world, and it is most prevalent in areas with poor hygiene and inadequate access to clean water.

The WHO classification system for trachoma is based on the presence of specific signs and symptoms of the infection. The system includes five stages of disease, ranging from mild to severe.

The five stages of the WHO classification system for trachoma are:

  1. TF: Trachomatous inflammation - follicular: This stage is characterized by the presence of small, raised bumps or follicles on the conjunctiva. These bumps can be painful and can cause the eyelids to stick together, especially after sleeping.
  2. TI: Trachomatous inflammation - intense: This stage is characterized by severe inflammation of the conjunctiva, with the presence of many follicles and thick discharge. The eyelids may also be swollen and red.
  3. TS: Trachomatous scarring: This stage is characterized by scarring on the inner surface of the eyelid, which can cause inversion of the eyelid and vision loss.
  4. CO: Corneal opacity: This stage is characterized by the development of scarring on the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye, which can lead to vision loss.
  5. C: Congenital: This stage refers to trachoma that is present at birth.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Trachoma

Trachoma is usually diagnosed based on the symptoms and a physical examination of the affected eye. In some cases, a sample of the discharge may be collected and sent to a laboratory for testing to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of trachoma typically involves the use of antibiotics to eliminate the infection. The most commonly used antibiotics for the treatment of trachoma are azithromycin and tetracycline.

In addition to medical treatment, the following measures can help to prevent the spread of trachoma:

  • Practice good hygiene: Washing hands regularly and properly disposing of human waste can help to prevent the spread of trachoma.
  • Avoid sharing personal items: Sharing personal items such as towels, pillowcases, and makeup can increase the risk of trachoma transmission.
  • Improve living conditions: Improving living conditions, such as increasing access to clean water and improving sanitation, can help to reduce the risk of trachoma.
  • Promote regular eye exams: Regular eye exams can help to diagnose trachoma early and initiate treatment before the infection progresses to later stages.

Prevention of Trachoma

The WHO has developed the SAFE strategy for the prevention of trachoma, which stands for Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvement.

  • Surgery: Trichiasis, or inversion of the eyelid, can be treated with surgery to prevent vision loss.
  • Antibiotics: Mass distribution of antibiotics can help to eliminate the infection and reduce the risk of trachoma transmission.
  • Facial cleanliness: Promoting facial cleanliness, such as washing the face with soap and water, can help to reduce the risk of trachoma transmission.
  • Environmental improvement: Improving living conditions, such as increasing access to clean water and improving sanitation, can help to

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