What is toxic conjunctivitis?

• A. Inflammation of the conjunctiva due to medications, chemicals, or toxins.
• B. Inflammation of the cornea due to bacterial infection.
• C. Inflammation of the eyelid caused by mites.
• D. Degeneration of the optic nerve.

Answer: (A)

Toxic conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by exposure to irritating substances such as medications, chemicals, or toxins. It occurs when the conjunctival surface is directly irritated or sensitized by these agents, often after using a new eye drop, exposure to a chemical, or contact lens solution. The hallmark is redness and irritation of the eye with tearing, and symptoms typically correlate with recent exposure to the offending substance; removing the irritant usually leads to improvement. This differs from bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, which are infectious; from blepharitis, which involves eyelid margins often with crusting; and from optic nerve disease, which affects vision more centrally and not the conjunctiva.