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Conjunctivitis
Alternate Names : Inflammation - Conjunctiva, Pink Eye
Definition Conjunctivitis is inflammation or infection of the membrane lining the eyelids (conjunctiva).
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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 types include bacterial, Chlamydial, fungal, and parasitic agents (rarely).
Pink eye refers to a viral infection of the conjunctiva. These infections are very contagious, especially among children. The virus is similar to the type which cause the common cold. The key is handwashing to prevent spreading the virus.
Bacteria are an uncommon cause of conjunctivitis. Many physicians will give a mild antibiotic eyedrop for all cases of pink eye to prevent bacterial conjunctivitis. Other causes are 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.
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Conjunctivitis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Conjunctivitis Symptoms & Signs
• Conjunctivitis Prevention
• Conjunctivitis Diagnosis & Tests
• Conjunctivitis Treatment
• Conjunctivitis Prognosis
• Conjunctivitis Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Allergic Conjunctivitis
• Allergies
• Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
• Trachoma
• Vernal Conjunctivitis
Other Topics
• Allergen
• Antibody
• Conjunctiva
• Eye Burning - Itching and Discharge
• Eye Pain
• Eye Redness
• Systemic
• Tearing - Increased
• Vision - Light Sensitive
• Vision Problems
Review Date : 11/18/2001
Reviewed By : Raymond S. Douglas, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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