Inclusion body conjunctivitis true is all except:
**Core Concept**
Inclusion body conjunctivitis (IBC) is a bacterial infection of the conjunctiva, primarily caused by *Chlamydia trachomatis*, and is most commonly seen in neonates during passage through the birth canal. It is characterized by a chronic, self-limiting inflammation with inclusion bodies in conjunctival epithelial cells.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
IBC is indeed self-limiting (A), occurs during passage through the birth canal (C), and is caused by *Chlamydia trachomatis* (D). However, it is not restricted to infants — it can also affect older children and even adults, especially in settings of exposure or immunosuppression. Thus, stating that it is "present only in infants" is incorrect and makes option B the exception.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
Option A: IBC is self-limiting and resolves spontaneously without specific treatment, making this statement true.
Option C: It occurs during passage through the birth canal, as maternal chlamydial infection can be transmitted to the newborn.
Option D: *Chlamydia trachomatis* is the primary causative organism, confirmed by histopathology and PCR.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember: IBC is not exclusive to infants — it can occur in older children and adults, especially in endemic areas or with exposure. Always consider chlamydia in neonatal conjunctivitis, but don’t assume it's only in infants.
✓ Correct Answer: B. Present only in infants