Infective conjunctivitis, i.e., inflammation of the
conjunctiva caused by microorganisms is the
commonest variety. This is in spite of the fact that
the conjunctiva has been provided with natural
protective mechanisms in the form of :
conjunctiva caused by microorganisms is the
commonest variety. This is in spite of the fact that
the conjunctiva has been provided with natural
protective mechanisms in the form of :
- Low temperature due to exposure to air,
- Physical protection by lids,
- Flushing action of tears,
- Antibacterial activity of lysozymes and
- Humoral protection by the tear immunoglobulins.
BACTERIAL CONJUNCTIVITIS
There has occurred a relative decrease in the
incidence of bacterial conjunctivitis in general and
those caused by gonococcus and corynebacterium
diphtheriae in particular. However, in developing
countries it still continues to be the commonest type
of conjunctivitis. It can occur as sporadic cases and
as epidemics. Outbreaks of bacterial conjunctivitis
epidemics are quite frequent during monsoon season.
There has occurred a relative decrease in the
incidence of bacterial conjunctivitis in general and
those caused by gonococcus and corynebacterium
diphtheriae in particular. However, in developing
countries it still continues to be the commonest type
of conjunctivitis. It can occur as sporadic cases and
as epidemics. Outbreaks of bacterial conjunctivitis
epidemics are quite frequent during monsoon season.
A. Predisposing factors for bacterial conjunctivitis,
especially epidemic forms, are flies, poor hygienic
conditions, hot dry climate, poor sanitation and dirty
habits. These factors help the
