Onchocerciasis with other eye involvement Save

Understanding Onchocerciasis with Other Eye Involvement

Onchocerciasis, commonly referred to as river blindness, is a parasitic disease caused by the worm Onchocerca volvulus. It is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected blackflies, which breed in fast-flowing rivers and streams. Onchocerciasis is a leading cause of blindness in many African countries, as well as in parts of South America and Yemen.

While eye involvement is a common symptom of onchocerciasis, there are several other conditions that can affect the eyes of those infected, including:

1. Conjunctivitis: inflammation of the thin, transparent layer of tissue that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye.
2. Keratitis: inflammation of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye.
3. Uveitis: inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that contains the blood vessels that nourish the retina.
4. Cataracts: clouding of the lens of the eye that can cause vision loss.

These conditions can cause a range of symptoms, from mild irritation to severe vision loss. Individuals with onchocerciasis should seek medical attention if they experience any of the following symptoms:

• Redness, itching, or burning of the eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurry vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Loss of peripheral vision

Early diagnosis and treatment of onchocerciasis and associated eye conditions is crucial to prevent permanent vision loss. While there is no cure for onchocerciasis, treatment with the drug ivermectin can help control the infection and prevent blindness. Individuals with other eye conditions may require additional treatments, such as eye drops or surgery, to manage their symptoms and prevent further damage to their vision.

If you live in an area where onchocerciasis is prevalent, it is important to take steps to protect yourself from infection. This includes wearing protective clothing and applying insect repellent when spending time outdoors, especially near rivers and streams where blackflies breed.

By understanding the symptoms and risks associated with onchocerciasis and other eye conditions, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their vision and maintain their overall health and well-being.