Neonatal conjunctivitis

Alternative Names

Treatment

Topical antibiotic eye drops and ointments, oral antibiotics, and intravenous antibiotics are all used depending on the severity of the infection and the organism responsible for it.

Occasionally, topical and oral (or topical and intravenous) routes may be used simultaneously. Irrigation of the eye with normal saline is done to remove the purulent drainage that accumulates.

If the conjunctivitis is caused by a blocked tear duct, gentle warm massage between the eye and nasal area may help. If it is not cleared by one year of age, surgery may be required.

Eye irritation caused by the eye drops given at birth should resolve on its own.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Early recognition of infected mothers and good hospital preventive practices have reduced conjunctivitis of the newborn to very low levels. Infants who do develop conjunctivitis and are quickly treated generally have good outcomes.

Possible Complications

• Blindness
• Corneal scarring
• Inflammation of the iris
• Perforation of the cornea
• Pneumonia

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Talk to your health care provider if you have given birth (or expect to give birth) to a baby in a setting where antibiotic or silver nitrate drops are not routinely placed in the infant's eyes -- for example, an unsupervised birth at home. This is especially important if you have had, or are at risk for, any sexually-transmitted disease.