TRACOMA: UMA REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA SOBRE ASPECTOS EPIDEMIOLÓGICOS, CLÍNICOS E ESTRATÉGIAS DE CONTROLE

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.656122624038

• Palavras-chave: Tracoma; Chlamydia trachomatis; Cegueira evitável.

• Keywords: Trachoma; Chlamydia trachomatis; Preventable blindness.

• Abstract: Trachoma is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, and is recognized as the leading infectious cause of preventable blindness in the world. Despite advances in control strategies, it remains a significant public health problem, especially in low-income regions. This study aims to conduct a systematic literature review on the main epidemiological, pathophysiological, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of trachoma, as well as prevention and control strategies. The methodology consisted of a systematic search for articles in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO databases, including studies published between 2010 and 2025. The results show that trachoma is strongly associated with unfavorable socioeconomic conditions, with a higher prevalence in populations exposed to poverty, overcrowding, and inadequate sanitation. The SAFE strategy (surgery, antibiotics, facial hygiene, and environmental improvements) has demonstrated a significant impact on reducing the disease in several countries. It is concluded that, although there have been significant advances, the elimination of trachoma still depends on integrated and sustainable actions aimed at reducing social inequalities and improving sanitary conditions.