The WHO is committed to eliminating trachoma as a public health concern by 2020.1 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.2 However, reliability of clinical examination is poor and disagreement between graders is common.3 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.4 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,5 we examined the use of smartphone imaging in trachoma.

During a recent programme, Partnership for the Rapid Elimination of Trachoma (PRET study) visit in Niger, we performed …