acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, a highly contagious eye disease usually caused by enterovirus type 70 but also by coxsackie virus AZA. The disease is found primarily in densely populated humid areas, particularly developing countries or places with large immigrant populations. Clinical features include a sudden onset of severe ocular pain, blurred vision, photophobia, subconjunctival hemorrhage, chemosis, swelling of the eyelid, and a profuse watery discharge from the eye. Symptoms are caused by neutralizing antibodies to infection. A polymerase chain reaction analysis of conjunctival swab specimens from patients is a rapid method of identification of the infectious agent. Spontaneous improvement occurs within 2 to 4 days and is complete by 7 to 10 days. Management consists of hygienic measures and ophthalmic preparations.
