ABSTRACT
Purpose This was a pilot study of the efficacy and safety of ciprofloxacin ophthalmic preparations in the treatment of chronic chlamydial conjunctivitis. Methods 24 patients, who were positive for Chlamydia trachomatis as shown by direct immunofluorescent monoclonal antibody staining, participated. 4 the first 14 days, one drop of 0.3% ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution [CILOXAN Eye Drops] was instilled 6 times a day into each affected eye and 0.3 cm of ciprofloxacin ointment [0.3%] was used at bedtime. Treatment, which was continued over the next 14 days, consisted of one drop of the solution into each affected eye four times a day. Results 17 patients had a follow-up bacteriological test. 16 out of the 17 [94%] showed no sign of Chlamydia trachomatis on the direct immunofluorescent monoclonal antibody staining test with 15 [88%] being assessed as cured or improved clinically. Overall, 17 of the 24 participating patients [71%] were considered cured or improved. 6 of the 24 patients experienced adverse events, which were ocular in nature, non-serious, mild and usually resolved without treatment. Conclusion Topical ciprofloxacin appears to be an effective treatment for chlamydial conjunctivitis