However, newborns can develop neonatal conjunctivitis due to reactions with chemicals in these common eye drops. Additionally, a blocked tear duct may be another noninfectious cause of neonatal conjunctivitis. Infectious
The two most common infectious causes of neonatal conjunctivitis are N. gonorrheae and Chlamydia, typically acquired from the birth canal during delivery. However, other different bacteria and viruses can be the cause, including herpes simplex virus (HSV 2), Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Streptococcus pneumoniae.Ophthalmia neonatorum due to gonococci (N. gonorrhoeae) typically manifests in the first 5 days after birth and is associated with marked bilateral purulent discharge and local inflammation. In contrast, conjunctivitis secondary to infection with C. trachomatis produces conjunctivitis 3 days to 2 weeks after delivery. The discharge is usually more watery in nature (mucopurulent) and less inflamed. Babies infected with chlamydia may develop pneumonitis (chest infection) at a later stage (range 2–19 weeks after delivery). Infants with chlamydia pneumonitis should be treated with oral erythromycin for 10–14 days.Diagnosis is performed after taking swab from the infected conjunctivae. Prevention
Antibiotic ointment is typically applied to the newborns eyes within 1 hour of birth as prevention against gonococcal ophthalmia. This may be erythromycin, tetracycline, or rarely silver nitrate or Argyrol (mild silver protein). Treatment
Prophylaxis needs antenatal, natal, and postnatal care. Antenatal measures include thorough care of mother and treatment of genital infections when suspected. Natal measures are of utmost importance, as most infection occurs during childbirth. Deliveries should be conducted under hygienic conditions taking all aseptic measures.
Endemic goiter is a type of goitre that is associated with dietary iodine deficiency. Cause
Some inland areas where soil and water lacks in iodine compounds and consumption of marine foods is low are known for higher incidence of goitre. In such areas goitre is said to be "endemic". Prevention
This type of goiter is easily preventable. In most developed countries regulations have been put into force by health policy institutions requiring salt, flour or water to be fortified with iodine. Treatment
Treatment of endemic goiter is medical with iodine and thyroxine preparations. Surgery is only necessary in cases where complicated by significant compression of nearby structures. References


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