From the Guidelines
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is most likely caused by viral infections, particularly adenoviruses, which are highly contagious and spread through direct contact with infected eye secretions or contaminated surfaces, as well as bacterial infections, allergens, and irritants, according to the most recent study 1. The sources of infection for pink eye conjunctivitis can be categorized into several types, including:
- Viral infections, such as adenoviruses, which are highly contagious and spread through direct contact with infected eye secretions or contaminated surfaces 1
- Bacterial infections, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae, which can be transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects 1
- Allergens, such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites, which can trigger allergic conjunctivitis 1
- Irritants, such as smoke, chlorine in swimming pools, and foreign bodies in the eye, which can cause conjunctivitis 1
- Contact lens wearers are at additional risk due to improper lens hygiene or extended wear 1 It is essential to practice good hand hygiene, avoid touching your eyes, not share personal items like towels or makeup, replace eye cosmetics regularly, and follow proper contact lens care to prevent pink eye, as treatment depends on the specific cause of the infection 1. The clinical signs and associated/predisposing factors for different types of conjunctivitis, such as gonococcal, chlamydial, and herpes simplex virus, are outlined in the study 1, highlighting the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent potential sequelae, such as corneal scarring, conjunctival scarring, and vision loss.
From the Research
Likely Sources of Infection for Pink Eye Conjunctivitis
- The most common overall cause of infectious conjunctivitis is viral conjunctivitis, which usually does not require treatment 2
- Bacterial conjunctivitis is the second most common cause of infectious conjunctivitis, with most uncomplicated cases resolving in 1 to 2 weeks 2
- Conjunctivitis secondary to sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia and gonorrhea requires systemic treatment in addition to topical antibiotic therapy 2
- Allergic conjunctivitis is encountered in up to 40% of the population, but only a small proportion of these individuals seek medical help 2
Transmission and Prevention
- Infective conjunctivitis should be managed conservatively, with antibiotics prescribed either after a delayed period if symptoms do not improve within 3 days of onset, or not at all 3
- Educating patients with written information materials is the most effective way to manage this simple ailment and increase patient satisfaction 3
- The use of topical antibiotics is associated with a modestly improved chance of resolution in comparison to the use of placebo 4
Treatment and Management
- Topical antibiotics decrease the duration of bacterial conjunctivitis and allow earlier return to school or work 2
- Treatment for viral conjunctivitis is supportive 2
- Treatment with antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers alleviates the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis 2
- Antibiotic treatment was associated with significantly better rates of clinical remission and microbiological remission 5