Differentiating Features in Acute Conjunctivitis

Etiology

Discharge/Cell Type

Eyelid Edema

Node Involvement

Itching

Bacterial

Purulent/polymorphonuclear leukocytes

Moderate

Usually none

None

Viral

Clear/mononuclear cells

Minimal

Often present

Usually None

Allergic

Clear, mucoid, ropy/eosinophils

Moderate to severe

None

Mild to intense