Complications

  • Pneumonia can occur in 10-20% of infants with chlamydial conjunctivitis up to 6 months later. Untreated chlamydial conjunctivitis in adults can lead to conjunctival scarring.

  • Penetration of the cornea can occur within 2 days in patients with untreated N gonorrhoeae.

  • Infections with N meningitidis may require systemic antibiotic to prevent meningitis.


Prognosis:
Prognosis is good. Conjunctivitis typically is self-limited and without long-term complications.
Patient Education:
Warm compresses and washing eyelids with diluted baby shampoo may speed resolution when blepharitis is an associated factor. Patients should not use eye make-up. Frequent hand washing is essential to prevent further transmission.