The conjunctival swab is a lab test performed for a patient suffering from conjunctivitis also

known as pink eye. Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva; a thin clear tissue

lying between the white part of the eye and inside of the eyelid. Conjunctivitis can be caused

due to various reasons for bacteria, viruses, allergies and excessive use of contact lenses.

Conjunctivitis caused due to bacteria is usually seen in children and elderly people. Infection

caused due to both bacteria and virus is contagious but can be treated easily and is not fatal.

Symptoms of conjunctivitis include excessive tears, thick yellow discharge forming a crust

around the eyes especially after a nap, itchy and burning eyes.