**Core Concept:** Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, which is the middle layer of the eye containing blood vessels. Parasitic infections can cause various ocular manifestations, including uveitis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Trachoma is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. In endemic regions, it is the most common cause of infectious uveitis, particularly in children. The infection leads to chronic inflammation of the eye, which can lead to blindness if left untreated.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Schistosomiasis (caused by Schistosoma species) is a parasitic infection affecting various organs, but is less common as a cause of uveitis compared to trachoma.
B. Strongyloidiasis (caused by Strongyloides stercoralis) is primarily a gastrointestinal infection, rarely causing uveitis, which is less common than trachoma.
C. Onchocerciasis (caused by Onchocerca volvulus) primarily affects the skin, causing skin nodules and itching, and is not as common as trachoma as a cause of uveitis.
D. Filariasis (caused by Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, or Brugia timori) is a group of parasitic infections, primarily affecting the lymphatic system, with uveitis being a rare complication.
**Clinical Pearl:** Trachoma is a preventable cause of uveitis. In endemic regions, it is essential to diagnose and treat trachoma to prevent sight-threatening complications.
**Correct Answer:** D. Trachoma (C. trachomatis) is the commonest parasitic cause of uveitis, particularly in endemic regions. This knowledge is essential for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent sight-threatening complications.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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