Abstract: Viral conjunctivitis, a common ocular infection caused by various viruses, presents diagnostic challenges due to overlapping clinical features with other forms of conjunctivitis. This article provides a comprehensive overview of viral conjunctivitis, elucidating its etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic modalities, and therapeutic strategies. By enhancing our understanding of viral conjunctivitis, clinicians can accurately diagnose and effectively manage this prevalent ocular condition, thereby minimizing patient discomfort and preventing transmission.

Introduction: Viral conjunctivitis represents a significant public health concern, accounting for a substantial proportion of infectious conjunctivitis cases worldwide. Characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, viral conjunctivitis encompasses a diverse spectrum of viral pathogens, including adenovirus, herpes simplex virus (HSV), and enterovirus. Despite its self-limiting nature, viral conjunctivitis can cause considerable discomfort and inconvenience, underscoring the importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Etiology: Viral conjunctivitis can be caused by several viruses, with adenovirus being the most common etiological agent. Other viruses implicated in viral conjunctivitis include HSV, enterovirus, and less frequently, varicella-zoster virus (VZV) and molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). Transmission typically occurs through direct contact with contaminated ocular secretions or fomites, highlighting the importance of strict hygiene measures to prevent spread.

Clinical Manifestations: The clinical presentation of viral conjunctivitis varies depending on the causative virus, but commonly includes symptoms such as unilateral or bilateral redness, watery discharge, foreign body sensation, and photophobia. Adenoviral conjunctivitis may also be associated with preauricular lymphadenopathy, while HSV-associated conjunctivitis may present with corneal involvement, manifesting as dendritic or geographic epithelial lesions.

Diagnostic Modalities: Diagnosing viral conjunctivitis relies on clinical evaluation and, in some cases, laboratory testing to confirm the underlying viral pathogen. Clinical features such as follicular conjunctival reaction, preauricular lymphadenopathy, and corneal involvement can aid in distinguishing viral conjunctivitis from other forms of conjunctivitis. Laboratory tests, including viral culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and antigen detection assays, may be employed for definitive diagnosis in suspected cases.

Therapeutic Strategies: Management of viral conjunctivitis is primarily supportive, focusing on symptom relief and preventing transmission. Treatment modalities may include lubricating eye drops, cold compresses, and topical antihistamines to alleviate ocular discomfort and inflammation. In cases of herpetic conjunctivitis caused by HSV, topical or oral antiviral agents such as acyclovir or ganciclovir may be prescribed to accelerate resolution and reduce the risk of ocular complications.

Conclusion: Viral conjunctivitis represents a common and often self-limiting ocular condition with diverse etiologies and clinical manifestations. By familiarizing themselves with the characteristic features of viral conjunctivitis and employing appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, clinicians can effectively manage this condition and improve patient outcomes. Continued research into viral pathogenesis and the development of targeted antiviral therapies hold promise for further enhancing our ability to combat viral conjunctivitis and mitigate its impact on public health.