Name two common infectious conjunctivitis pathogens.

Name two common infectious conjunctivitis pathogens.

• A. Fungal and parasitic pathogens
• B. Bacterial (Staphylococcus, Streptococcus) and viral (adenovirus)
• C. Only viral pathogens
• D. Allergic conjunctivitis

Answer: (B)

Infectious conjunctivitis is most often caused by two broad types of pathogens: bacteria and viruses. Bacterial conjunctivitis commonly involves organisms like Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, which explains the frequent purulent discharge and crusting around the eyes. Viral conjunctivitis is typically due to adenovirus, a highly contagious cause that often presents with watery discharge and can spread in outbreaks. Including representatives from both major infectious groups makes this option the best fit because it captures the two leading categories and a well-known example from each. Fungal or parasitic pathogens are much less common in conjunctivitis, and allergic conjunctivitis is not caused by an infectious pathogen at all.

Infectious conjunctivitis is most often caused by two broad types of pathogens: bacteria and viruses. Bacterial conjunctivitis commonly involves organisms like Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, which explains the frequent purulent discharge and crusting around the eyes. Viral conjunctivitis is typically due to adenovirus, a highly contagious cause that often presents with watery discharge and can spread in outbreaks. Including representatives from both major infectious groups makes this option the best fit because it captures the two leading categories and a well-known example from each. Fungal or parasitic pathogens are much less common in conjunctivitis, and allergic conjunctivitis is not caused by an infectious pathogen at all.