Trachoma
Trachoma is the most common form of blindness worldwide.

It is present in Central America, The Middle East, and some Mediterranean countries.
This infection is transmitted to the eyes by contaminated hands or towels.

After 1 week the eye is irritated and inflamed with discharge.

After 1 month gray lumps form on the inside of the upper eyelids and scarring of the cornea may develop.
Diagnosis is by analysis of cells spread from the infection.

Antibiotic ointment, medication, and sometimes surgery may be needed.

Trachoma links

International Trachoma Initiative http://www.trachoma.org/core/

Hellen Keller International http://www.hki.org/

Medical Journal of Austrailia http://www.mja.com.au/public/issues/175_07_011001/taylor/taylor.html