Interstitial keratitis is commonly seen in: March 2005
**Core Concept**
Interstitial keratitis is a type of non-specific inflammation of the corneal stroma, often associated with infections or congenital conditions. This condition can lead to corneal scarring, vision loss, and potentially even blindness.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Congenital syphilis is a well-documented cause of interstitial keratitis, particularly in infants born to mothers with untreated syphilis. The pathogenesis involves the transmission of syphilis spirochetes from the mother to the fetus during pregnancy. In congenital syphilis, the spirochetes can infect the cornea, leading to inflammation and interstitial keratitis. This condition is often seen in children with congenital syphilis, who may present with symptoms such as corneal opacification, vision loss, and photophobia.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Fungal keratitis is a type of fungal infection of the cornea, typically seen in individuals who wear contact lenses or have a history of trauma to the eye. While fungal keratitis can cause corneal inflammation, it is not typically associated with interstitial keratitis.
**Option C:** Phlyctenular keratitis is a type of immune-mediated inflammation of the cornea, often seen in children and young adults. It is typically associated with a hypersensitivity reaction to antigens such as staphylococcal proteins or other foreign substances. Phlyctenular keratitis is characterized by the formation of small nodules or phlyctenules on the cornea, but it is not typically associated with interstitial keratitis.
**Option D:** Trachoma is a type of bacterial infection of the eye caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It is a leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene. Trachoma can cause corneal scarring and vision loss, but it is not typically associated with interstitial keratitis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In cases of congenital syphilis, interstitial keratitis can be a late manifestation of the disease, often presenting in childhood or adolescence. Early diagnosis and treatment of congenital syphilis can help prevent the development of interstitial keratitis and other complications.
**β Correct Answer: B. Congenital syphilis**