Most infections are small load and asymptomatic except for mild eosinophilia. Heavy worm loads, decreased immune competence, and other factors may lead to malaise, fever, cough and wheezing, hepatomegaly, anorexia, and weight loss. Ocular toxocariasis also occurs and usually leads to decreased vision. Asymptomatic infections are not necessary to treat. Trachoma is a recurrent conjunctivitis beginning in childhood and caused by Chlamydia trachomatis .
Trachoma is a major cause of blindness in developing countries.
Childhood infections and reinfections result in bilateral follicular conjunctivitis, epithelial keratitis, and corneal vascularization. Secondary bacterial infections are common, resulting in further complications. Treatment is with po tetracycline or erythromycin, both 250 mg 6 times daily for 3-5 weeks. Doxycycline 100 mg po bid for 3-5 weeks is also a common treatment. Infection ranges from light and asymptomatic to heavy and life-threatening.