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“My left eye has been red and watering nonstop since I returned from summer camp two days ago. Now my right eye is red and watery, too.”
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History of Present Illness
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16-year-old adolescent female with signs and symptoms consistent with viral conjunctivitis
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What are the types of conjunctivitis that should be included in the differential diagnosis for this patient?
Hint: See Conjunctivitis and Figure 63-1 in PPP
What is the most common etiology of viral conjunctivitis?
Hint: See Viral Conjunctivitis in PPP
What nonpharmacologic measures can be used to relieve symptoms?
Hint: See Viral Conjunctivitis in PPP
What pharmacologic therapy should be used to treat viral conjunctivitis?
Hint: See Viral Conjunctivitis in PPP
When should the patient see significant improvement in the viral conjunctivitis?
Hint: See Viral Conjunctivitis in PPP
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What measures can the patient take to minimize spread to others?
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Conjunctivitis is a frequently encountered ophthalmic disorder that is most commonly viral in etiology. Conjunctivitis is very contagious and poses a significant health problem in schools and workplaces where touch contamination is poorly controlled. Living conditions can contribute to continuous cases of viral conjunctivitis as household items such as towels and pillows are shared. If the etiology of the conjunctivitis is not clear, the patient should be referred to an eye care practitioner.