A "site" for sore eyes

  • George L Muntingh University of the Western Cape
  • Michelle Viljoen University of the Western Cape
Keywords: conjunctivitis, eye infection, keratitis, antibiotic

Abstract

It is known that not all red eyes are caused by infections. Furthermore, not all eye infections will react to antibiotic eye drops. Most cases of conjunctivitis are due to viral causes, do not require antibiotic eye drops and are usually self-limiting. Serious ophthalmic conditions such as infectious keratitis can lead to blindness; it is an emergency that requires specialist treatment. Also infectious endophthalmitis has become more frequent with the use of intravitreal injections. Intravitreal antibiotics are needed to try and prevent visual loss. To ensure therapeutic local exposure ophthalmic antibiotic solutions should be applied frequently into the eye.

Author Biographies

George L Muntingh, University of the Western Cape

BPharm, PhD (Pharmacology), Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa

Michelle Viljoen, University of the Western Cape

Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa

Published
2018-11-29
Issue
Vol 60 No 6: November/December 2018
Section
Review Articles
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