Gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum is caused by *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*, the bacterium that causes the STD gonorrhea (Figure 21.22). Inclusion (chlamydial) conjunctivitis is caused by *Chlamydia trachomatis*, the anaerobic, obligate, intracellular parasite that causes the STD chlamydia. Conjunctivitis caused by *N. gonorrhoeae,* *C. trachomatis*, or other bacteria acquired during a vaginal delivery can have serious complications.

*Neisseria gonorrhoeae* & *Chlamydia trachomatis*

Infants born to people who have certain sexually transmitted infections are at risk of contracting ophthalmia neonatorum or inclusion conjunctivitis, which are two forms of neonatal conjunctivitis contracted through exposure to pathogens during passage through the birth canal.

University of Southern Mississippi

Bacterial Infections of the Skin and Eyes

https://openstax.org/details/books/microbiology/

Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Microbiology is produced through a collaborative publishing agreement between OpenStax and the American Society for Microbiology Press. The book aligns with the curriculum guidelines of the American Society for Microbiology.

OpenStax Microbiology Textbook

One of the most ubiquitous skin conditions is acne. Acne afflicts nearly 80% of teenagers and young adults, but it can be found in individuals of all ages. Higher incidence among adolescents is due to hormonal changes that can result in overproduction of sebum. Acne is characterized by whitehead and blackhead comedones that result from clogged hair follicles.

Acne

Anthrax mainly affects animals such as sheep, goats, cattle, and deer, but can be found in humans as well. Sometimes called wool sorter’s disease, it is often transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or animal products, such as wool or hides.

Anthrax

An infection that develops in the dermis or hypodermis can cause cellulitis, which presents as a reddened area of the skin that is warm to the touch and painful.

Cellulitis

Erysipelas, a condition that presents as a large, intensely inflamed patch of skin involving the dermis (often on the legs or face).

Erysipelas

Erythema nodosum, characterized by inflammation in the subcutaneous fat cells of the hypodermis.

Erythema Nosodum

Impetigo can be diagnosed as either nonbullous or bullous. It is specially common in children, impetigo is particularly concerning because it is highly contagious.

Impetigo

Streptococcal infections that start in the skin can sometimes spread elsewhere, resulting in a rare but potentially life-threatening condition called necrotizing fasciitis, sometimes referred to as flesh-eating bacterial syndrome.

Necrotizing Fasciitis

Also known as swimmers ear, is an infection of the ear canal that causes itching, redness, and discomfort, and can progress to fever, pain, and swelling.

Otitis externa

This is another superficial infection  that is most commonly seen in young children, especially infants. SSSS is diagnosed by examining characteristics of the skin (which may rub off easily), using blood tests to check for elevated white blood cell counts, culturing, and other methods. Intravenous antibiotics and fluid therapy are used as treatment.

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS)

These purulent skin infections may initially manifest as folliculitis, but can lead to furuncles or deeper abscesses called carbuncles.



Wound Infections (Pyoderma)

Like the skin, the surface of the eye comes in contact with the outside world and is somewhat prone to infection by bacteria in the environment. Bacterial conjunctivitis (pinkeye) is a condition characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva. Conjunctivitis can affect one eye or both, and it usually does not affect vision permanently. Bacterial conjunctivitis is very contagious, being transmitted via secretions from infected individuals, but it is also self-limiting.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

This is a serious bacterial infection of the cornea this type of infection usually developed fairly quickly. 

Bacterial Keratitis

Neonatal Conjunctivitis

Trachoma, or granular conjunctivitis, is a common cause of preventable blindness that is rare in the United States but widespread in developing countries, especially in Africa and Asia.

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