Acute Red Eye Flashcards
What commonly precedes a case of viral conjunctivitis?
Viral URTI
Will viral conjunctivitis impair vision?
No, this is a red flag sign.
If seen, refer urgently to ophthalmology.
How does an ocular surface problem present?
Foreign body/gritty sensation
What are common causes of foreign body/gritty sensation?
Dry eyes
Blepharitis
Conjunctivitis
What form of conjunctivitis is associated with a mucopurulent discharge?
Bilateral conjunctivitis
What is a common finding in both allergic and viral conjunctivitis?
Orbital swelling
Does itch present in viral conjunctivitis?
No, it is only seen in allergic conjunctivitis?
Lymphadenopathy in which organ is pathognomonic of viral conjunctivitis?
Pre-auricular
Which antibiotic is used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis?
Topical chloramphenicol
When is fusidic acid used?
To treat staphylococcus infection.
Often applicable in blepharitis.
What is blepharitis?
When the edges of the eyelids become red and swollen.
How should viral conjunctivitis be managed?
Lubrication (e.g. carbomer gel)
Steroids - if significant inflammation is present.
What lifestyle advice should be given to patients with an infective conjunctivitis?
Avoid sharing towels
Maintain good hand hygiene
Avoid contact lenses
What is a hypopyon?
The presence of white cells in the anterior chamber of the eye.
It is indicative of inflammation within the eye.
What is limbal injection?
Redness around the corneal border.
May indicate keratitis, or inflammation within the eye.
