What is the term for neonatal conjunctivitis?

The term "ophthalmia neonatorum" refers specifically to neonatal conjunctivitis, which is an inflammation of the conjunctiva in newborns, typically occurring in the first month of life. This condition can arise from various causes, including bacterial infections (most commonly from Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis), chemical irritants (such as silver nitrate), or viral pathogens. Prompt recognition and treatment are essential to prevent complications.

The other terms used in the options do not accurately describe neonatal conjunctivitis. "Congenital conjunctivitis" implies that the condition is present from birth due to inherent developmental issues, which does not align with the typical causes of conjunctivitis seen in neonates. "Infantile keratitis" specifically refers to inflammation of the cornea in infants, a different ocular condition that can follow conjunctivitis but is distinct from it. "Newborn eye infection" is a vague term that could refer to a variety of infections affecting the eyes and does not specifically denote conjunctivitis. Thus, ophthalmia neonatorum is the precise and widely accepted medical term for this particular condition.