Infections of the eye

Infections of the eye range from the mild to the severe. They may affect the lid, conjunctiva, cornea, lacrimal apparatus, vitreous, orbit or retina. Common presentations, diagnostic methods and treatment are briefly described. The doctor should not only manage outpatients appropriately, but know when to seek the advice of the ophthalmologist when indicated. Common conditions which can be managed by the general practitioner include blepharitis, styes, chalazia and conjunctivitis. With increased use of contact lenses, infection of the cornea has become more common. Sight-threatening conditions like endophthalmitis and orbital cellulitis should be recognised and treated early.