Chlamydia trachomatis Mimicking COVID-19 Chronic Follicular Conjunctivitis

Case Rep Ophthalmol Med. 2021 Jan 30:2021:6654347. doi: 10.1155/2021/6654347. eCollection 2021.

Abstract

Purpose: To characterize the clinical presentation and report lab findings of Chlamydia trachomatis follicular conjunctivitis in two patients with a positive history of active COVID-19 infection. Participants. Two patients with follicular conjunctivitis with a recent history of COVID-19 infection.

Design: Retrospective, noncomparative, case report.

Methods: Demographic data including age, gender, and place of residence were recorded. A full exam with an emphasis on inflammatory characteristics and systematic workup. Sample follicles were surgically excised in selected cases, and molecular and histopathological analyses were performed.

Results: Both patients were initially treated for viral conjunctivitis. After symptoms failed to resolve, biopsy results indicated that both patients were positive for chlamydia conjunctivitis and treated accordingly.

Conclusions: These cases illustrate the role of biopsy as an investigative tool in chronic conjunctivitis and the importance of having a broad differential when treating patients with acute conjunctivitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports