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Bacterial conjunctivitis

John Epling1

  • 1Department of Family Medicine, State University of New York-Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA.

BMJ Clinical Evidence
|July 2, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This systematic review evaluates treatments for bacterial conjunctivitis in adults and children. It found evidence on the effectiveness and safety of various interventions, including antibiotics and warm compresses.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Evidence-Based Medicine

Background:

  • Bacterial conjunctivitis is more common in children than viral forms.
  • Key bacterial pathogens include Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.
  • Contact lens wearers face increased risk of gram-negative infections and bacterial keratitis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the effects of empirical and confirmed treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis in adults and children.
  • To evaluate treatments for clinically confirmed gonococcal conjunctivitis.
  • To review the safety and effectiveness of various interventions.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of studies including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies.
  • Searched major databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library) up to July 2009.
  • Included harms alerts from regulatory agencies like the US FDA and UK MHRA.

Main Results:

  • Included 40 systematic reviews, RCTs, or observational studies.
  • Performed GRADE evaluation to assess the quality of evidence for interventions.
  • Information gathered on effectiveness and safety of interventions.

Conclusions:

  • Presents information on ocular decongestants, oral antibiotics, parenteral antibiotics, saline, topical antibiotics, and warm compresses.
  • Provides evidence on the effectiveness and safety of interventions for bacterial conjunctivitis.
  • Supports evidence-based decision-making for conjunctivitis treatment.

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