Bacterial Conjunctivitis Flashcards
What are common bacterial causes of bacterial conjunctivitis?
Staphylococcus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis.
Can bacterial conjunctivitis be caused by gram-negative bacteria?
Yes, bacterial conjunctivitis can be caused by gram-negative bacteria.
What are some contributing factors to bacterial conjunctivitis?
Trauma, contact lens wear, cold, steroids, and blepharitis.
What are the key signs of bacterial conjunctivitis?
Lid crusting, mucopurulent discharge, conjunctival hyperaemia (max in fornices), and mild papillary reaction.
What are common symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis?
Redness, discomfort (burning/grittiness), discharge (which may cause blurring of vision), and crusting of lids.
How long does bacterial conjunctivitis typically take to resolve without treatment?
5-7 days.
How should lids be cleaned in cases of bacterial conjunctivitis?
Use sterile wipes or boiled (cooled) water to remove crusting.
Is bacterial conjunctivitis contagious, and what precautions should be taken?
Yes, it is contagious. Do not share towels to prevent spreading.
When should a patient with bacterial conjunctivitis be referred to a specialist (B3 referral)?
If the condition fails to resolve, there is corneal involvement, or if the conjunctivitis is recurrent or persistent.
What diagnostic step may be taken if bacterial conjunctivitis persists or is recurrent?
Conjunctival swabs should be taken for culture and sensitivity.
What is the first-line antibiotic treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis?
Chloramphenicol 0.5% eye drops or 1% ointment, or fusidic acid 1%.
What should be considered when treating contact lens wearers with bacterial conjunctivitis?
They should be treated with antibiotics effective against gram-negative bacteria, such as quinolones.
What are some common clinical signs of conjunctival hyperaemia in bacterial conjunctivitis?
Redness is most pronounced in the fornices (folds of the conjunctiva).
How does the discharge in bacterial conjunctivitis differ from other types of conjunctivitis?
Bacterial conjunctivitis typically presents with mucopurulent discharge.
Why is it important to refer bacterial conjunctivitis cases with diagnostic uncertainty?
To ensure appropriate treatment and avoid complications, especially if there is corneal involvement.
