Adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis

Keratoconjunctivitis epidemica 2

Adenoviral Keratoconjunctivitis is an infectious eye disease affecting the cornea and the conjunctiva, primarily caused by adenovirus. It is characterized by eye redness, swelling, tearing, and pain, often accompanied by blurred vision and light sensitivity. This condition is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in communities, leading to outbreaks.

Causes and Transmission

Adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis is caused by several types of adenoviruses, with types 8, 19, and 37 being the most common culprits. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects. The virus can spread by touching the eyes with contaminated hands, sharing personal items like towels or cosmetics, or exposure to contaminated water in swimming pools.

Symptoms

The symptoms of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis can vary but typically include:

• Severe eye redness
• Swelling of the conjunctiva and eyelids
• Tearing
• Pain or discomfort in the eyes
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Feeling of a foreign body in the eye

Symptoms usually appear within 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus and can last for two weeks or more.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis is primarily based on clinical signs and symptoms. Laboratory tests, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or viral culture, can confirm the diagnosis by identifying the adenovirus in samples collected from the conjunctiva.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis. Management focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing the spread of the virus. Treatment options include:

• Cold compresses to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Artificial tears to alleviate dryness and irritation
• Topical antihistamines or anti-inflammatory medications to control inflammation and discomfort
• Strict hygiene measures, including frequent hand washing and avoiding sharing personal items

Patients are advised to avoid touching their eyes and to maintain good hygiene to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Prevention

Preventing adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis involves minimizing exposure to the virus and practicing good hygiene. Recommendations include:

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoiding touching the face and eyes with unwashed hands
• Not sharing personal items like towels, cosmetics, or eye drops
• Using disposable towels during outbreaks
• Staying home when experiencing symptoms to reduce the risk of spreading the virus

Complications

While most cases of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis resolve without long-term effects, some individuals may develop complications such as corneal opacities or blurred vision that can persist for months or even years.

Conclusion

Adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis is a significant cause of eye infections worldwide. Due to its highly contagious nature and potential for outbreaks, awareness and adherence to preventive measures are crucial. While there is no cure, supportive care and good hygiene can help manage symptoms and reduce the spread of the virus.