Complications

Complication
Timeframe
Likelihood
short term
high

May warrant investigation of tear film change following acute conjunctivitis.

short term
low

Rarely, bacterial conjunctivitis can develop into keratitis in patients with a history of contact lens use or who are immunocompromised.[107]Neisseria gonorrhoeae can rapidly invade a cornea.[22]

long term
medium

Approximately 30% to 50% of those patients with the form of adenovirus that causes epidemic keratoconjunctivitis may develop subepithelial infiltrates. This can lead to persistent visual loss and light sensitivity.[108][109][110][111][112] Consider referral to an eye consultant for possible corticosteroid treatment.

long term
low

Scarring of the tear ducts may cause chronic tearing.[113] Consider referral to an eye consultant for possible corticosteroid treatment.

long term
low

Scarring of the conjunctiva may lead to eyelid malposition and secondary tearing or eyelash problems.[114] Consider referral to an eye consultant for possible corticosteroid treatment.

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