Chlamydia trachomatis is the organism addressed by azithromycin eye drops for trachomatous conjunctivitis in neonates. Which organism is correct for this condition?

• A. Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• B. Haemophilus influenzae
• C. Streptococcus pneumoniae
• D. Chlamydia trachomatis

Answer: (D)

Trachomatous conjunctivitis in neonates is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It’s transmitted from the mother during birth and tends to present a few days to weeks after delivery with mucopurulent discharge. Azithromycin is effective against Chlamydia, which is why it’s used for this neonatal ocular infection. Neisseria gonorrhoeae causes a much more acute, severe conjunctivitis with rapid corneal involvement and requires different systemic therapy. Haemophilus influenzae and Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause common conjunctivitis, but they are not the organisms associated with trachomatous (Chlamydia) conjunctivitis in newborns.