Overview
Gonococcal conjunctivitis is an ocular infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, typically presenting with unilateral conjunctival injection, purulent discharge, and potentially leading to corneal involvement and visual impairment 1.Diagnosis
Clinical Presentation: Unilateral conjunctival injection, purulent discharge, and may include visual impairment 1.
Laboratory Confirmation: Positive culture of conjunctival swab for Neisseria gonorrhoeae 1.
Visual Acuity Assessment: Evaluate visual acuity, especially in cases with suspected visual impairment 1.
Corneal Examination: Assess for corneal involvement, which occurred in 25% of cases 1.Management
First-Line Treatment: Ceftriaxone, sensitive in all tested cases 1.
Alternative Treatment: Ciprofloxacin, also sensitive in all tested cases 1.
Duration and Monitoring: Specific dosing and duration not detailed; monitor response and potential complications 1.Special Populations
Neonates: No cases identified in neonates during the study period at the tertiary referral maternity hospital 1.
Adults: Predominantly affects males with a mean age of 18 years; consider demographic factors in clinical suspicion 1.Key Recommendations
Confirm Diagnosis via Culture: Positive culture of conjunctival swab is essential for diagnosis (Evidence: Moderate 1).
Initiate Ceftriaxone Therapy: First-line treatment due to confirmed sensitivity in all tested cases (Evidence: Strong 1).
Monitor Visual Acuity and Corneal Health: Regular assessment is crucial, especially in cases with visual impairment or corneal involvement (Evidence: Moderate 1).References
1 McAnena L, Knowles SJ, Curry A, Cassidy L. Prevalence of gonococcal conjunctivitis in adults and neonates. Eye (London, England) 2015. link