Ophthalmology - Conjunctivitis Flashcards
What is conjunctivitis?
Inflammation of the conjunctiva
May be bacterial, viral or allergic
Unilateral or bilateral
What does the conjunctiva cover?
The inside of the eyelids and the sclera
How does conjunctivitis present?
- Red, bloodshot eye
- Itchy or gritty sensation
- Discharge
Does not cause
- Pain
- Photophobia
- Reduced visual acuity
What type of discharge is associated with bacterial conjunctivitis?
Purulent discharge
Worse in the morning
Highly contagious
What type of discharge is associated with viral conjunctivitis?
Clear discharge
Associated with
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Blocked nose
Pre-auricular tenderness (tenderness in front of ears)
Contagious
What are the causes of acute painful red eye?
- Acute angle-closure glaucoma
- Anterior uveitis
- Scleritis
- Corneal abrasions or ulceration
- Keratitis
- Foreign body
- Traumatic or chemical injury
What are the causes of acute painless red eye?
Conjunctivitis
Subconjunctival haemorrhage
How long does conjunctivitis usually take to resolve without treatment?
1-2 weeks
What hygiene measures can help reduce the spread of conjunctivitis?
- Avoiding towel sharing
- Avoiding close contact
- Regular hand washing
What medications can be given for bacterial conjunctivitis?
- Chloramphenicol
- Fusidic acid eye drops
What should be done for neonates under one month with conjunctivitis?
Urgent ophthalmology assessment
What can cause serious complications in neonatal conjunctivitis?
Gonococcal infection
What is allergic conjunctivitis caused by?
Contact with allergens causing
- Swelling of the conjunctival sac
- Swelling of the eyelid
- Itching
- Watery discharge
What can help alleviate symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis?
- Antihistamines (oral or topical)
- Topical mast-cell stabilisers (used for chronic seasonal symptoms)
How long do topical mast-cell stabilisers require to show benefit?
Several weeks
