A Case of Neonatal Chlamydial Conjunctivitis: Illustrating the Typical Aspects of Presentation and the Importance of Empiric Treatment and a Multidisciplinary Approach

Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common cause of infectious neonatal conjunctivitis in the United States and worldwide. If left untreated, it can cause scarring of the cornea or conjunctiva. Furthermore, neonatal chlamydial conjunctivitis is not infrequently associated with chlamydial pneumonia, making this type of neonatal conjunctivitis important to recognize and treat. We present a case of neonatal chlamydial conjunctivitis that occurred despite routine prenatal screening and the use of erythromycin ophthalmic ointment at birth. The case illustrates many of the typical aspects of the presentation of this condition as well as the importance of empiric treatment and a multidisciplinary approach, involving not only ophthalmology and pediatrics but infectious diseases and social services, when appropriate.