Etiology of corneal opacification in central Tanzania

The frequency and causes of visually significant corneal opacification in central Tanzania was assessed by a population-based survey. The overall prevalence of bilateral corneal opacification was 1.16% (95% CI 0.31-1.44) and unilateral corneal opacification was 2.07% (95% CI 1.55-2.73). Bilateral corneal opacification was most frequently associated with trachoma, keratoconjunctivitis, vitamin A deficiency and measles. Unilateral corneal opacification had similar causes with the addition of cases caused by trauma. Corneal scarring is a frequent occurence in this region. The majority of cases of corneal opacification are secondary to potentially preventable or treatable causes.