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Conjunctivitis

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Illustrations

Eye
Eye

Alternative names    Return to top

Inflammation - conjunctiva; Pink eye

Definition    Return to top

Conjunctivitis is inflammation or infection of the membrane lining the eyelids (conjunctiva).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors    Return to top

The conjunctiva is exposed to bacteria and other irritants. Tears help protect the conjunctiva by diluting bacteria and washing it away. Tears also contain enzymes and antibodies which kill bacteria.

There are many causes of conjunctivitis. Viruses are the most common cause. Other causes include bacteria, Chlamydia, fungus, and rarely, parasitic agents.

"Pink eye" refers to a viral infection of the conjunctiva. These infections are especially contagious among children. Handwashing is key to preventing the spread of the virus, which is similar to the type which cause the common cold.

Bacteria are an uncommon cause of conjunctivitis. Many physicians give a mild antibiotic eyedrop for pink eye to prevent bacterial conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis is also caused by allergies (allergic conjunctivitis), chemical exposure, and certain systemic diseases.

Newborns can be infected by bacteria in the birth canal. This condition is called ophthalmia neonatorum, and it must be treated immediately to preserve sight. Use of contact lenses, particularly extended-wear lenses, can cause conjunctivitis.

See also:

Symptoms    Return to top

Signs and tests    Return to top

Treatment    Return to top

Treatment of conjunctivitis depends upon the cause.

Allergic conjunctivitis may respond to treatment for underlying allergies, or it may disappear on its own when the allergen that caused it is removed. Cool compresses may be soothing for allergic conjunctivitis.

Antibiotic medication, usually eye drops, is effective for bacterial conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis will disappear on its own. The discomfort with viral or bacterial conjunctivitis can be soothed by applying warm compresses (a clean cloth soaked in warm water) to closed eyes.

Expectations (prognosis)    Return to top

The outcome is usually good with treatment.

Complications    Return to top

Reinfection within a household or school may occur if preventive measures are not followed.

Calling your health care provider    Return to top

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms persist longer than 3 or 4 days.

Prevention    Return to top

Good hygiene can help prevent the spread of conjunctivitis:

Update Date: 1/19/2004

Updated by: Raymond S. Douglas, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Ophthalmology, UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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