Corneal Opacities in Sub-Saharan Africa
Mr. J has been experiencing progressively worsening vision in his right eye over the past two years. His symptoms began with eye redness and discomfort, which he initially attributed to dust exposure from farming. However, over time, he noticed a white spot developing on his cornea and increasing difficulty seeing clearly. He did not seek medical attention earlier due to the distance to the nearest clinic and financial constraints.
Mr. J presented to a rural health clinic complaining of significant vision loss in his right eye and mild discomfort. He reported that the vision in his left eye was still intact, but he was concerned about the potential for similar problems in the future.
On examination, the right eye showed a central corneal opacity with scarring, severely reducing his visual acuity. There was no active infection, but the opacity was dense and involved the visual axis. His left eye was clear and healthy, with normal vision.
Mr. J was diagnosed with corneal opacity secondary to untreated corneal ulceration, likely caused by an infectious keratitis. The ulcer may have been exacerbated by his working environment and lack of timely treatment.
Given the advanced nature of the corneal opacity, corneal transplantation was discussed as a potential treatment, but the procedure was not readily available in his area. Mr. J was provided with protective eyewear and instructed on eye care to prevent further damage to his left eye. He was referred to a specialist centre in the city for further evaluation and possible surgery.
Despite the referral, Mr. J’s options were limited due to the unavailability of corneal transplants and his financial situation. He was encouraged to seek help from charitable organisations that support eye care in rural areas. His case underscores the importance of early intervention and access to specialised eye care in preventing blindness from corneal opacities in sub-Saharan Africa.
a). Severe eye pain
b). Eye redness and discomfort
c). Sudden vision loss in both eyes
d). Frequent headaches
a). Glaucoma
b). Cataracts
c). Untreated corneal ulceration
d). Retinal detachment
a). Laser eye surgery
b). Corneal transplantation
c). Eyeglasses prescription
d). Antibiotic eye drops
a). Lack of antibiotics
b). Limited availability of corneal transplants
c). Poor patient compliance
d). Bilateral eye involvement
Answers
- b). Eye redness and discomfort
- c). Untreated corneal ulceration
- b). Corneal transplantation
- b). Limited availability of corneal transplants