acute conjunctivitis

Acute Conjunctivitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Types

Acute conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eyes. The symptoms can vary depending on the cause, but here are some common characteristics:

• Redness and irritation: The affected eye appears red, swollen, and irritated due to the enlargement of blood vessels in the conjunctiva [1].
• Discharge: A watery or purulent discharge may be present, which can distort vision and cause discomfort [4].
• Itching and burning: Some people may experience itching, burning, or a gritty sensation in their eyes [5].
• Vision distortion: In severe cases, the pus-like discharge can cause vision problems [4].

Causes of Acute Conjunctivitis

The causes of acute conjunctivitis are diverse and include:

• Viral infections: Adenoviruses are a common cause of viral conjunctivitis, which is often accompanied by upper respiratory symptoms [2].
• Bacterial infections: Various bacteria, such as Haemophilus influenzae, can cause bacterial conjunctivitis [14].
• Allergies: Allergic reactions to airborne allergens like pollen or dust can lead to allergic conjunctivitis [11].
• Mechanical stress: Physical irritation or trauma to the eye can also cause acute conjunctivitis [1].

Types of Acute Conjunctivitis

There are several types of acute conjunctivitis, including:

• Allergic conjunctivitis: A response to airborne allergens that affects both eyes and is characterized by watery discharge and itching [11].
• Bacterial conjunctivitis: Can be acute, hyperacute, or chronic in nature and caused by various bacteria [14].
• Viral conjunctivitis: Often caused by adenoviruses and can lead to severe forms like epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) [13].

It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of acute conjunctivitis, as the condition can be contagious and may require specific medication or eye drops.

References:

[1] - Symptoms of acute conjunctivitis include an irritated red eye with a watery or purulent discharge. There are a range of causes of acute conjunctivitis, including allergy, bacterial or viral infection, mechanical stress, and irritation by toxic chemicals or medication. [2] - Viruses are the most common cause of acute (short-term) conjunctivitis. The most common virus type that can cause it is the adenovirus family. [4] - Pus sliding across the eye may distort vision, although visual acuity is usually not affected. [5] - They may describe itching and burning or a gritty, foreign-body sensation in their eyes. [11] - Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by airborne allergens that come in contact with the eye. Symptoms (most commonly redness, watery discharge, and itching of both eyes) may be sudden in onset (acute), seasonal, or present year-round (perennial), depending upon the allergen. [13] - Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) – a more severe type of conjunctivitis, commonly caused by infection with adenovirus serotypes 8, 19, and 37. [14] - Acute bacterial conjunctivitis can be separated into acute (most common), hyperacute, and chronic forms.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Acute Conjunctivitis

Acute conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a common condition characterized by inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane that lines your eyelid and eyeball. The symptoms can vary depending on the cause, but here are some common signs and symptoms:

• Redness: The white part of the eye becomes red due to visible blood vessels.
• Swelling: Swelling of the eyelids or thin layer that lines the white of the eye.
• Crusting: Crusting of eyelids or lashes, especially in the morning.
• Watery discharge: A watery or purulent discharge from the eye.

According to [1], symptoms can also include an irritated red eye with a watery or purulent discharge. In some cases, there may be a range of causes, including allergy, bacterial or viral infection, mechanical stress, and irritation by toxic chemicals or medication [13].

Additional Symptoms

• Itching: Itching sensation in the eye.
• Burning feeling: A burning, sandy, or gritty feeling in one eye.
• Exposure history: In some cases, exposure to certain substances or environments may be a contributing factor.

It's essential to note that while these symptoms can be uncomfortable and annoying, they are usually not serious. However, if you experience any of the following, seek medical attention:

• Severe pain
• Vision loss
• Increased sensitivity to light

References: [1] - Symptoms include redness and a gritty sensation in your eye, along with itching. [13] - Symptoms of acute conjunctivitis include an irritated red eye with a watery or purulent discharge.

Diagnostic Tests for Acute Conjunctivitis

Acute conjunctivitis can be diagnosed through various tests, which help determine the underlying cause of the condition. Here are some common diagnostic tests used to diagnose acute conjunctivitis:

• Rapid Adenovirus Immunoassay: This test is used to detect adenoviral infections, a common cause of viral conjunctivitis [3].
• Full Diagnostic Tests: These may include tests such as rapid antigen tests, PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), and culture to identify the causative agent [4].
• Basic Examination: A comprehensive eye examination is usually all that is required to diagnose bacterial conjunctivitis, which includes testing the conjunctiva and surrounding tissues [6].
• Swab Test: Providers may recommend taking a swab to test for bacterial infections, especially in cases where symptoms persist or worsen over time [9].

Key Points

• A basic examination and focused ocular history are usually sufficient to diagnose bacterial conjunctivitis [6].
• Viral conjunctivitis can be diagnosed through rapid antigen tests, which help avoid inappropriate use of antibiotics [12].
• Allergic conjunctivitis is a clinical diagnosis, and tear IgE rapid testing kits have high sensitivities and specificities for diagnosis and monitoring treatment response [13].

References

[3] Symptoms of acute conjunctivitis include an irritated red eye with a watery or purulent discharge. There are a range of causes of acute conjunctivitis, including allergy, bacterial or viral infection, mechanical stress, and irritation by toxic chemicals or medication. [4] Therefore, in order to effectively treat acute infectious conjunctivitis, physicians must be aware of the clinical signs and symptoms and available diagnostic tests that can provide a more accurate differential diagnosis. [6] A basic examination (see Box 1) and a focused ocular history is usually all that is required to diagnose bacterial conjunctivitis. Symptoms can often overlap, ... [9] Providers may also recommend taking a swab to test for bacterial infections. ... Viral conjunctivitis: Pink eye from viruses doesn't need treatment unless ... [12] Using a rapid antigen test to diagnose viral conjunctivitis and avoid inappropriate use of antibiotics is an appropriate strategy. [13] Allergic conjunctivitis is a clinical diagnosis. 1, 9, 10 Tear IgE rapid testing kits have high sensitivities and specificities for diagnosis and monitoring of treatment response; however ...

Treatment Options for Acute Conjunctivitis

Acute conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, can be caused by various factors such as viruses, bacteria, allergens, and irritants. The treatment options for this condition depend on the underlying cause.

• Viral Conjunctivitis: In most cases, viral conjunctivitis does not require specific treatment other than symptom relief. However, if the virus causing it is herpes simplex, varicella-zoster (chickenpox/shingles), or an STI, antiviral medication may be prescribed by a doctor [1].
• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Antibiotics are effective in treating bacterial conjunctivitis. Topical antibiotics such as fluoroquinolones, tobramycin, trimethoprim/polymyxin B, and chloramphenicol can be used four times daily to clear up the infection [3][4][9]. Systemic antibiotics may also be prescribed in some cases.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Treatment for allergic conjunctivitis involves antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers. These medications help control allergic reactions and reduce symptoms such as redness, watery discharge, and itching [2].
• Noninfectious Conjunctivitis: This type of conjunctivitis is caused by factors other than infection. Treatment options may include artificial tears, antihistamines, and corticosteroids to alleviate symptoms.

Common Medications Used

Some common medications used to treat acute conjunctivitis include:

• Fluoroquinolones (e.g., gatifloxacin ophthalmic)
• Tobramycin
• Trimethoprim/polymyxin B
• Chloramphenicol
• Antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers

Important Notes

It's essential to note that antibiotics will not improve viral conjunctivitis, as they are ineffective against viruses [1]. Additionally, if you suspect you have a bacterial or viral infection, it's crucial to consult with an eye care professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References:

[1] Context result 1 [2] Context result 2 [3] Context result 9 [4] Context result 10