Acute conjunctivitis

Question 1

INFECTIVE CONJUNCTIVITIS OVERVIEW
i) which two things is it characterised by?
ii) which type of conjunctivitis is more assoc with purlulent discharge (eyes stuck together in the morning)
iii) which type is more associated with serous discharge, recent URTI, periauricular LNs

Answer 1

i) sore red eyes and a sticky discharge
ii) bacterial
iii) viral

Question 2

INFECTIVE CONJUNCTIVITIS MANAGEMENT
i) how long does it normally take to settle?
ii) which therapy is often offered to patients? which is the topical alternative and safe in pregnant women?
iii) what advice should be given to contact lens users?
iv) is it necessary to stay off school?

Answer 2

i) usually self limiting and settles within 1-2 weeks
ii) topical abx therapy - chlorampenicol drops 2-3 hourly
fusidic acid safe in pregnancy - twice daily
iii) topical fluorescien to look for any corneal staining
dont wear contact lenses during episode
iv) no

Question 3

ALLERGIC CONJUNCTIVITIS
i) what is it often seen in the context of?
ii) name three features? what may there be a history of?
iii) what is first line tx? what is second line tx?

Answer 3

i) hayfever
ii) bilateral symptoms of conjnctival erythema, itch, eyelids swollen
hx of atopu
iii) first line is topical/systemic antihistamines
second line is topical mast cell stabilisers eg sodium cromoglicate