A systematic approach to the diagnosis and treatment of chronic conjunctivitis

P. A. Rapoza, T. C. Quinn, A. C. Terry, J. D. Gottsch, L. A. Kiessling, H. R. Taylor

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

In 58 patients with chronic conjunctivitis of greater than two weeks' duration, examination included obtaining an ocular and general medical history and performing a complete ophthalmic examination of the external eye. Conjunctival smears were obtained for Gram and Giemsa staining, direct immunofluorescent monoclonal antibody staining for Chlamydia trachomatis and herpes simplex virus, and chlamydial culture. Cultures for bacteria and viruses were obtained in 33 patients. The cause of the chronic conjunctivitis based on clinical and laboratory criteria was established in 40 of 58 (69%) patients: chlamydia, 11 (19%); virus eight (14%); irritant, six (10%); allergen, four (7%); contact lens, four (7%); bacteria, four (7%); acne rosacea, two (3%); and floppy eyelid syndrome, one (2%). In 18 of 58 (31%) patients, no specific cause was detected. We recommend a systematic approach in the investigation of chronic conjunctivitis. Direct immunofluorescent monoclonal antibody staining is an effective and rapid technique for detecting chronic chlamydia conjunctivitis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)138-142
Number of pages5
JournalAmerican journal of ophthalmology
Volume109
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1990
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ophthalmology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A systematic approach to the diagnosis and treatment of chronic conjunctivitis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this