Gonococcal Conjunctivitis in Elderly: A Case Report

Background: Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by gram-negative diplococci intracellular bacteria, called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Despite it is mostly known as genital infection, N. gonorrhoeae may infect other mucosa membranes such as the ocular mucosa, causing gonococcal conjunctivitis (GC). We aimed to explain the case report Gonococcal Conjunctivitis in Elderly. Case presentation: In this report, we diagnosed an unusual age group of GC, a 62-year-old man presented with hyperpurulent discharges of the right eye, with eyelid edema and chemosis. A thorough patient history, combined with ocular examination and Gram stain showed the presence of N. gonorrhoeae. GC is a potentially shattering ocular infection if left untreated. Delayed treatment may lead to serious condition such as keratitis, corneal ulceration and perforation, uveitis, endophthalmitis, panophthalmitis, and eventually blindness. While most GC case seen in neonatal population, also called gonococcal opthalmia neonatorum, GC has become an emerging issue among adult age in this recent decade, especially in sexually active age group, but GC rarely seen in elderly population. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of complete clinical evaluation, including patient sexual history, physical examination and early diagnosis, in order to achieve prompt treatment and prevent unwanted complication, both ocular and systemic.