Conjunctival epithelial cell basophilic cytoplasmic inclusion bodies are present in Giemsa-stained conjunctival scrapings. Immunofluorescent staining techniques can also detect C. trachomatis in conjunctival scrapings. The mother and her sexual partner also require treatment. An acute seasonal conjunctival inflammation caused by an allergy, generally to airborne pollens. Symptoms, Signs, and Diagnosis Patients complain of bilateral conjunctival hyperemia, watery discharge, and ocular itching.
Most patients also complain of simultaneous rhinitis.
Many patients have other atopic diseases such as eczema and asthma. The conjunctivitis is recurrent and seasonal, with symptoms peaking during the spring, late summer, and early fall. The bulbar and tarsal conjunctivae are hyperemic, but the predominant feature is edema. The bulbar conjunctiva appears translucent, bluish, and thickened. The papillae on the tarsal conjunctiva give it a velvety appearance.