Conjunctivitis in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Bacteriological Study

Abstract

A total of 1,256 conjunctival swabs were examined for potential pathogens, and 334 (26.6%) had positive cultures. Of these positive cultures, 107 were from neonates and 227 from other age groups. In the neonatal period, Gramnegative bacilli and Gram-positive cocci, especially Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae, were the predominant organisms isolated. In other age groups, however, the causative agents were mainly S. pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. The incidence of conjunctivitis was higher in age groups of 1-6 days, 2-4 months, and 2-4 years. Incidence declined after the age of four years. Sensitivities of the various pathogens isolated are discussed and an empiric therapy is suggested based on these antibiograms. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Bacteriological Study. 1987; 7(2): 111-114 MeSH MNH Chowdhury, Conjunctivitis in