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Neonatal conjunctivitis is an important cause of ocular morbidity with infectious and noninfectious origins. Common practice in the United States is to administer prophylactic antibiotic ointment at birth; however, prophylaxis is ineffective for some causes. Moreover, recognition of the etiologies that threaten systemic complications to the neonate is critical in providing timely and appropriate treatment. This review summarizes the clinical features, etiology, and treatment recommendations of various forms of neonatal conjunctivitis.

A female newborn has an abnormally shaped head (Figs 1 and 2). Figure 1. Profile of infant. Figure 2. View of top of infant’s head. ### Prenatal and Birth Histories ### Presentation (Day 1) The infant’s respiratory distress resolved 2 hours after birth and she transitioned off CPAP. Dysmorphic features were noted on physical examination at 2 days of age and hence, further evaluation was undertaken. ### Vital Signs ### Physical Examination (Day 2)

A term male newborn with respiratory distress at birth was noted to have central corneal opacity of the right eye. ### Prenatal and Birth Histories ### Presentation (Day 1) In the NICU, the neonate continued to require CPAP. Initial chest radiography showed diffuse pulmonary opacities concerning for surfactant deficiency. When the neonate remained on CPAP at 6 hours of age, the primary team evaluated him for sepsis and started antibiotics. On examination at the time of admission, a right corneal opacity (Fig 1) was noted with a normal left eye (Fig 2). Figure 1. Right eye. Central corneal opacity with surrounding 360-degree vascularization. Figure 2. Left eye. Clear …