Question
Primary Cause/Treatment of Viral Conjunctivitis Correct Answer
- adenovirus and herpes simplex virus. These infections typically
present with red, watery eyes and may be accompanied by fever and
sore throat. Treatment is usually supportive, including artificial
tears and cold compresses.
Viral Conjunctivitis Differentials Correct Answer - Bacterial
conjunctivitis (characterized by purulent discharge and often
treated with topical antibiotics), allergic conjunctivitis (itchy eyes,
watery discharge, and treated with antihistamines), and chemical
conjunctivitis (caused by exposure to irritants like chemicals and
fumes).
Viral Conjunctivitis MUST NOT MISS Correct Answer - HSV in
the eye-Refer to ophthalmology
Symptoms of Bacterial Conjunctivitis Correct Answer - sticky,
crusty, or purulent discharge, especially noticeable upon waking. It
may also include redness and swelling of the conjunctiva.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis Differentials Correct Answer - Viral
conjunctivitis (clear discharge, often with upper respiratory
symptoms), allergic conjunctivitis (itchy, watery eyes), and
exposure to irritants.
Treatment Approach for Allergic Conjunctivitis Correct Answer -
most effective treatment avoidance of known allergens and the use
of antihistamine eye drops to relieve symptoms.
-often seasonal and may be accompanied by other allergy symptoms
like sneezing and nasal congestion.
, • Use of antibiotic eye drops (for bacterial) and discontinuing
contact lenses
Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC) Correct Answer - often
related to wearing contact lenses or the presence of foreign bodies
in the eye. Symptoms include itching, mucus discharge, and the
feeling of a foreign body in the eye. It is often managed by changing
contact lens type, cleaning regimen, or discontinuing lens use.
Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC) Differentials Correct Answer
- Direct chemical exposure (causes chemical conjunctivitis), viral
infections (e.g., HSV causing keratitis), and exposure to allergens
(causing allergic conjunctivitis)
Common Causes of Otitis Externa Correct Answer - known as
"swimmer's ear," is often caused by bacterial or fungal infections
due to water exposure. Symptoms include ear pain, swelling, and
redness of the ear canal. Treatment typically involves antibiotics or
antifungal ear drops.
Otitis Externa Considerations Correct Answer - Allergic
reactions to ear drops, underlying skin conditions like eczema, and
prolonged courses of oral antibiotics (which can disrupt normal ear
flora).
Treatment for Necrotizing Otitis Externa Correct Answer -
severe infection that extends to the bone and requires aggressive
medical management with antibiotics and surgical intervention.
This condition is most seen in immunocompromised individuals,
such as those with diabetes
Must not miss and action needed with Necrotizing Otitis Externa
Correct Answer - REFER TO ED