The WHO is committed to eliminating trachoma as a public health concern by 2020. Since decisions for mass treatment are determined by the prevalence of clinical trachoma in a community, efficient and accurate methods for monitoring clinical activity remain a priority. However, reliability of clinical examination is poor and disagreement between graders is common. Photography of the conjunctiva could reduce variability and improve accuracy of trachoma surveillance. Currently, research studies use single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras to validate field grading. Yet, SLR cameras are expensive and require substantial field training to operate, and thus few trachoma programmes have adopted this technology. A simpler, more affordable camera may increase uptake of this diagnostic technique. In view of growing applications of mobile technology, we examined the use of smartphone imaging in trachoma.
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