What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is defined specifically as the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the white part of the eyeball. This condition can result from various causes, including infections (bacterial or viral), allergies, or irritants. The symptoms often associated with conjunctivitis include redness of the eye, swelling, discharge, and discomfort.

The other options do not accurately describe conjunctivitis. For instance, inflammation of the cornea refers to keratitis, which is a different condition entirely. An allergic reaction in the eyelids would be classified separately from conjunctivitis, as it focuses on the eyelid tissues rather than the conjunctival lining. Infection affecting the eyelid margins is more closely related to conditions like blepharitis or hordeolum, emphasizing inflammation of the eyelid rather than the conjunctiva. Thus, recognizing that conjunctivitis pertains strictly to the conjunctival tissue is essential for understanding this prevalent ocular condition.