Glossary of Medical and Health Terms

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the outermost layer of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids), most commonly due to an allergic reaction or an infection (usually bacterial, or viral).

Blepharoconjunctivitis is the combination of conjunctivitis with blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids).

Keratoconjunctivitis is the combination of conjunctivitis and keratitis (corneal inflammation).

Episcleritis is an inflammatory condition that produces a similar appearance to conjunctivitis, but without discharge or tearing.

Causes

Some forms of conjunctivitis are extremely contagious while others are not. It all depends on the etiology.

Symptoms

Eyes with conjunctivitisRedness, irritation and watering of the eyes are symptoms common to all forms of conjunctivitis. Itch and the closing of the throat is variable.

Associated ICD-10 codes: H10.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conjunctivitis

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