Single-dose azithromycin in the treatment of trachoma. A randomized, controlled study.

Purpose: To compare the safety and efficacy of single oral-dose azithromycin with a 7-week topical tetracycline ointment course in the treatment of active trachoma.

Methods: A total of 64 patients with active trachoma were selected randomly to receive azithromycin (20 mg/kg) in a single dose or topical tetracycline eye ointment for 6 weeks. Clinical assessments were made before and at 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks after treatment.