Laboratory-Acquired Gonococcal Conjunctivitis

Authors:
  • SBScott C. Bruins
    Scott C. Bruins
  • RTRobert R. Tight
    Robert R. Tight
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Abstract
Gonococcal conjunctivitis occurred 13 days after accidental conjunctival inoculation with a clinical isolate and was cured with penicillin and erythromycin for topical therapy. The use of a syringe with a self-locking needle device is recommended when injecting live pathogens and could have prevented this infection. In some instances, gonococcal conjunctivitis may remain asymptomatic longer than is generally recognized. Proper management of accidental conjunctival inoculation with gonococci should include antibiotic therapy for systemic effect. The efficacy of drug therapies other than penicillin is unknown and requires further study. (JAMA241:274, 1979)