What is trachoma

Infectious disease that causes a roughening of the inner surface of the eyelids

For other uses, see Trachoma (disambiguation).

Medical condition

Trachoma is an infectious disease caused by bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.^[2] The infection causes a roughening of the inner surface of the eyelids.^[2] This roughening can lead to pain in the eyes, breakdown of the outer surface or cornea of the eyes, and eventual blindness.^[2] Untreated, repeated trachoma infections can result in a form of permanent blindness when the eyelids turn inward.^[2]

The bacteria that cause the disease can be spread by both direct and indirect contact with an affected person's eyes or nose.^[2] Indirect contact includes through clothing or flies that have come into contact with an affected person's eyes or nose.^[2] Children spread the disease more often than adults.^[2] Poor sanitation, crowded living conditions, and insufficient clean water and toilets also increase spread.^[2]

Efforts to prevent the disease inclu

how is the spread of trachoma similar to that of dysentery

is trachoma contagious