Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis. Prevention of disastrous results.

Conjunctivitis has many bacterial and viral causes. If the cause is bacterial, treatment with a broad-spectrum antibiotic resolves the problem in 1 to 3 days in almost all cases. If signs and symptoms persist, referral to an ophthalmologist is wise. Most cases of viral conjunctivitis are accompanied by follicular reactions in the inferior fornix, as observed with adult inclusion disease. If dendrites are seen, trifluridine (Viroptic) is preferred for treatment. Referral to an ophthalmologist is advisable because recurrence with scarring and permanent loss of vision is possible. Many topical antibiotics include a corticosteroid component that never should be used unless the conjunctivitis or keratitis is proven to be nonherpetic.