[Bacteriological analysis in the management of conjunctivitis. Comparison of antibiotic resistance between 1982 and 2008].

OBJECTIVE To demonstrate the need for bacteriological analysis for the rational treatment of infections of the corneal surface, including conjunctivitis. METHODS The results of 1,970 consecutive bacteriological analysis obtained from 2001 to 2008 in patients with ocular hyperemia and discharge were analysed and compared with a similar study done in 1982 in the same geographical area. RESULTS Bacterial growth was obtained in 1,044 cases (53%). The most frequent bacteria were Staphylococci spp. (56.6%), followed by Streptococci spp. (21.4%), Haemophili spp. (12.1%), and other gram-negative bacteria (9.9%). No antibiotic was effective against all the bacteria isolated. The frequency of resistant bacteria against neomycin, tobramycin, erythromycin and gentamicin was significantly increased with respect to the study of 1982. CONCLUSIONS Bacteriological analysis of conjunctival specimens are necessary to ensure the choice of an effective antibiotic against bacteria of the ocular surface when the initial treatment fails.