Year: 2021
Type: article
Abstract: Ophthalmia neonatorum (ON) refers to any conjunctivitis occurring in the first 28 days of life. In the past Neisseria gonorrhoeae was the most common cause of ON. It decreased with the introduction of prophylaxis at birth with the instillation of silver nitrate 2% (the Credè's method of prophylaxis). Today, the term ON is used to define any other bacterial infection, in particular due to Chlamydia Trachomatis. Currently, the WHO reccomends topical ocular prophylaxis for prevention of gonococcal and chlamydial conjunctivitis for all neonates. On the contrary, several European countries no longer require universal prophylaxis, opting for screening and treatment of pregnant women at high risk of infection. And what about Italy? Have a look on Italian history of prophylaxis, starting by the first decree issued in 1940, signed by Benito Mussolini. In the following decades the law has undergone many changes. At the moment, legislation is unclear, therefore careful consideration is required in order to draft the correct appoach.
Institutions: Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Policlinico Casilino, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale degli Spedali Civili di Brescia, Ospedale Valduce, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Agostino Gemelli University Polyclinic, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Aziende Socio Sanitarie Territoriali di Lecco, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico
Language: English
Subfield: Ophthalmology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,145
OpenAlex ID: W4200255481