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Bacterial conjunctivitis is a type of infectious conjunctivitis caused by bacteria. It's an infection that affects the conjunctiva, the thin protective film that covers the inner eyelid and the eyeball. While it's a self-limiting benign disease that can be resolved in a few days with the topical application of antibiotics, it should not be underestimated. It's important to conduct necessary investigations to ensure that the infection is indeed bacterial and doesn't hide a systemic pathology.
Bacterial conjunctivitis is a common eye infection, accounting for over half of all types of acute conjunctivitis.
In adults, bacterial conjunctivitis is typically caused by a variety of bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae. These bacteria can invade the eye's protective barriers, leading to infection and inflammation.
For children, the condition is predominantly caused by Haemophilus influenzae and Streptococcus pneumoniae, as well as Moraxella catarrhalis. These organisms are particularly adept at infecting the less mature immune systems of younger individuals.
Certain individuals are more susceptible to bacterial infections in general, and to infectious conjunctivitis in particular. Risk factors include:
All forms of conjunctivitis present common symptoms such as redness of the eyes, abnormal tearing, photophobia, and swollen eyelids. However, bacterial conjunctivitis can be recognized by observing the tear secretion. The typically infectious conjunctival secretion is abundant and purulent, and takes on a yellowish, sometimes greenish hue. This secretion causes the typical "glue" effect on the eyelids, which struggle to open.
When conjunctivitis is treated with the right medications, the prognosis is excellent. However, complications can occur when the disease spreads to the cornea, especially when bacterial conjunctivitis is not adequately treated. Mortality, although a remote event, is linked to failure to recognize the pathology, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Untreated conjunctivitis can lead to serious conditions like sepsis, meningitis, otitis media, or pneumonia.
A suspicion of bacterial conjunctivitis must be confirmed through specific medical tests, which are also essential for differential diagnosis. The diagnosis begins with the evaluation of the symptoms reported by the patient and his clinical history, followed by an eye examination. A sample of conjunctival secretion is generally taken and subsequently sent to the laboratory for a cellular investigation.
Treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis typically involves eye drops and ophthalmic ointments applied directly to the eye. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are generally prescribed, which are active on multiple bacteria. As a support to antibiotic therapy, the doctor often recommends a complementary use of corticosteroid eye drops with anti-inflammatory action.
Maintaining good hygiene is essential to minimize the risk of any type of infection, including bacterial conjunctivitis. It's advisable to always wash your hands, especially before touching your eyes. When a family member or cohabitant experiences the symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis, it's important to avoid sharing towels, sheets, or other clothing to limit the risk of infection. Also, avoiding contact with infected patients as much as possible can prevent bacterial infections like conjunctivitis.
In conclusion, bacterial conjunctivitis is a common but treatable eye condition. However, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications and to follow good hygiene practices to prevent its spread.