Heterogenous pathogen profile associated with acute conjunctivitis in Nepal

TL;DR

A study in Nepal found RNA viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, are common causes of acute conjunctivitis, highlighting the need for updated diagnostic approaches.

Contribution

The study reveals RNA viruses, especially SARS-CoV-2, as predominant pathogens in acute conjunctivitis in Nepal, challenging prior assumptions.

Findings

Pathogens were identified in 55% of conjunctivitis cases.

RNA viruses were the most common pathogen class detected.

SARS-CoV-2 was the most frequently identified RNA virus.

Abstract

Infectious conjunctivitis is common in Nepal.

This prospective study recruited 60 patients with presumed acute infectious conjunctivitis from the B.P. Koirala Lions Center for Ophthalmic Studies in Kathmandu, Nepal. Swabs from the conjunctiva and anterior nares were processed for metagenomic RNA deep sequencing (RNA-seq).

Pathogens were identified in 55% of cases. RNA viruses were the most common pathogen class identified. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was the most common RNA virus identified.

Acute infectious conjunctivitis varies by location. Contrary to expectations, RNA viruses predominated. Repeat surveillance may be useful and RNA-seq allows for detection of the unexpected pathogen including RNA viruses.

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