Journal of Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology
Open Access
ISSN: 2155-9570
ISSN: 2155-9570
Ravi Kumar Chukka
University of New South Wales, Australia
LV Prasad Eye Institute, India
Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Clin Exp Ophthalmol
Introduction: Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that impairs the affected individuals in many ways. Methodology: 184 leprosy patients were recruited for this study from the leprosy treatment cell and 82% of them were examined. Results: Out of 184 leprosy patients 150 cases (82%) had complete examination, out of which 72 (48%) were females. 72 (48%) persons had multi-bacillus leprosy and the rest had Pausi bacillus leprosy. 19(14%) of the subjects had organ deformities. 76(51%) subjects had eye problems requiring intervention and among this 12(16%) subjects had ocular problems caused by leprosy. Only 26(17%) of the subjects had previously accessed eye care services. Moderate visual impairment was observed in 39(26%) cases without correction and the vision level improved with correction in 20(51%) cases. Blindness related to leprosy was seen 5(3.3%) patients. Conclusion: Ocular involvement was seen in 8% of leprosy patients. Early referral of leprosy patients with eye problems will reduce the prevalence of blindness in leprosy patients.
Ravi Kumar Chukka has completed his Diploma in Ophthalmic Assistant at Kakatiya Medical College, Community Eye Health (ICARE-LVPEI) and COSMEC (LAICO- MADURAI). He has obtained his Master’s in Community Eye Health (ICARE-UNSW- Australia) and MA in Public Administration. He also did PGDCA and LLB. He has been working as an Ophthalmology Officer since last 20 years in Government Medical & Health Department. He has received a State Award in 2008 and Best Research Study Award in International Symposium on Community Ophthalmology at Kolkata in the year 2010. He has also received two national level awards. He serves as a Member of Indian Association of Community Ophthalmology, Lions Club of Bellampally, Coordinator of Lions Eye Hospital Bellampally and Regional Secretary State Ophthalmic Officer’s Association.
Email: ravikumarchukka@yahoo.co.in