Conjunctival suffusion

Conjunctival suffusion of the eyes due to leptospirosis

Conjunctival suffusion is a medical condition characterized by the diffuse reddening of the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids. Unlike conjunctivitis, which can involve inflammation, discharge, and is often caused by infection or allergy, conjunctival suffusion is primarily marked by redness without the presence of exudates or significant inflammation.

Causes

Conjunctival suffusion can be caused by a variety of factors, including but not limited to:

• Viral infections: Certain systemic viral infections can lead to conjunctival suffusion as a symptom.
• Leptospirosis: This bacterial disease, caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira, is known to cause conjunctival suffusion among other symptoms.
• Chemical exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals or irritants can cause the conjunctiva to become diffusely red.
• Physical strain: Activities that increase intraocular pressure, such as heavy lifting or straining, can lead to conjunctival suffusion.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of conjunctival suffusion is a uniform reddening of the conjunctiva. Unlike conjunctivitis, there is typically no itching, burning, discharge, or significant pain associated with conjunctival suffusion. However, patients may experience a sensation of fullness or pressure in the eyes.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of conjunctival suffusion involves a thorough medical history and physical examination by a healthcare provider, often including an ophthalmologist. Key to diagnosis is differentiating conjunctival suffusion from conjunctivitis and other eye conditions that cause redness. In some cases, additional tests may be conducted to identify underlying systemic conditions, such as viral or bacterial infections, that could be contributing to the symptom.

Treatment

Treatment for conjunctival suffusion focuses on addressing the underlying cause. If the condition is caused by a systemic infection, appropriate antimicrobial therapy may be prescribed. In cases where chemical exposure is the culprit, flushing the eye with water or saline and avoiding further exposure to the irritant are key steps. For suffusion caused by physical strain, no specific treatment may be necessary, but patients may be advised to avoid activities that exacerbate the condition.

Prevention

Preventing conjunctival suffusion involves avoiding known causes, such as chemical irritants and activities that significantly increase intraocular pressure. Maintaining good hygiene and taking precautions to avoid infectious diseases can also help prevent conditions that lead to conjunctival suffusion.