Which of the following is a significant distinguishing feature of viral conjunctivitis?
Significant eye pain or decreased visual acuity is not consistent with the diagnosis of viral conjunctivitis. The hallmark of bacterial conjunctivitis is a continuous globular purulent discharge seen at the lid margins and in the corners of the eye. Viral conjunctivitis typically has a clear discharge with occasional scant mucoid discharge. Both may present with a history of the eye "matted shut" in the morning. Ref: Levsky M.E., DeFlorio P. (2010). Chapter 2. Ophthalmologic Conditions. In K.J. Knoop, L.B. Stack, A.B. Storrow, R.J. Thurman (Eds), The Atlas of Emergency Medicine, 3e.
Significant eye pain
Globular purulent discharge
Clear discharge
Eye