Review Article

Epidemiological and Clinical Profile of Neonatal Conjunctivitis: A Case Study from the University Clinics of Lubumbashi

Authors: Fernand Kayamb Ngoie, Viviane Maloba Ngoie, Gaby Borasisi Chenge.

DOI: 10.33425/2639-9482.1049

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Abstract

Objective: To assess the epidemiological profile of newborns diagnosed with neonatal conjunctivitis in our setting.

Patients and Methods: This retrospective descriptive study analyzed 900 medical records of newborns hospitalized in the neonatology department of the University Clinics of Lubumbashi from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2018 (24 months). The variables studied in newborns included sex, gestational age, APGAR score, day of onset of ocular symptoms, laterality of conjunctival involvement, clinical manifestations, associated pathologies, use of the Credé prophylaxis method, and the type of treatment administered. For mothers, we considered age, antenatal care (ANC) attendance, history of infections during pregnancy, and duration of labor. The diagnosis was clinical, based on the presence of conjunctival hyperemia, edema, and purulent discharge.

Results: Among the 900 births recorded, 42 newborns (4.67%) developed neonatal conjunctivitis. The mothers' ages ranged from 17 to 42 years, with a mean of 30.5 ± 6.15 years; 54.79% were between 30 and 39 years old. Antenatal care was attended by 85.71% of mothers (36 out of 42). A history of urogenital infection in the third trimester of pregnancy was reported in 52.38% of cases. Bilateral conjunctival involvement was observed in 90.48% of affected newborns, with purulent discharge in 85.71%, typically appearing on the second day of life (36.59%). None of the newborns received prophylactic treatment. Gentamycin was the most commonly used antibiotic, administered to 88.10% of affected newborns.

Conclusion: Neonatal conjunctivitis remains a relatively uncommon condition in our setting. Early antibiotic treatment is essential to prevent complications. Strengthening adherence to prenatal consultations and ensuring systematic application of the Credé prophylaxis method could significantly reduce its incidence.

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