Pharyngoconjunctival fever is a type of viral conjunctivitis caused by adenovirus types 3, 4, and 7. It presents as acute follicular conjunctivitis accompanied by upper respiratory tract infection and fever. The primary mode of transmission is through respiratory secretions. The condition is most common in children and adolescents aged 4–9 years and tends to occur in outbreaks during the summer and winter seasons, particularly in kindergartens and schools.
Clinical Manifestations
The condition is characterized by acute follicular conjunctivitis, pharyngitis, and fever. Prodromal symptoms include general fatigue, a rise in body temperature to over 38°C, tearing, eye redness, and sore throat. Clinical signs include follicular conjunctivitis, transient superficial punctate keratitis, subepithelial haze, and enlargement of the preauricular lymph nodes. In some cases, pharyngeal conjunctival fever may present with only one to three of its key features. The disease is self-limiting, with a course of approximately 10 days.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis can be made based on clinical presentation. Conjunctival scrapings typically reveal a large number of mononuclear cells, and bacterial culture shows no growth.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment and prevention measures are similar to those for epidemic keratoconjunctivitis. During the course of illness, avoiding public spaces such as swimming pools and other crowded areas helps reduce the risk of transmission.