Conjunctivitis, adenoviral

B30.1+ (H13.1*)

DESCRIPTION

Adenovirus is a common cause of infective conjunctivitis. It may be unilateral but is usually bilateral.

Clinical features:

  • Viral conjunctivitis may be associated with an upper respiratory tract infection.
  • A burning, sandy, or gritty feeling in the eyes.
  • Morning crusting followed by watery discharge.
  • Preauricular lymphadenopathy may be present.

The condition is self-limiting but eye irritation and discharge may get worse for 3-5 days before getting better and symptoms can persist for 2-3 weeks.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

  • Sodium chloride 0.9%, eye washes or irrigation.

If sodium chloride 0.9% is not available use cooled boiled water/sterile water.

  • Oxymetazoline 0.025%, ophthalmic drops, instil 1 drop 6 hourly for 7 days.