Conjunctivitis

• The spectrum of pediatric conjunctivitis ranges from a benign, self-limited process to a serious infectious disease necessitating hospitalization and ophthalmologic consultation. • The pediatric clinician should be familiar with the various causes of conjunctivitis. Consideration of the child's age, exposures (both medications and close contacts), and additional medical conditions are helpful in formulating a differential diagnosis. • Because certain conjunctival conditions may threaten sight, referral to an ophthalmologist is imperative if the condition is severe, worsens, or does not respond readily to initial therapy.