What condition is also known as pinkeye?

Pinkeye is commonly known as conjunctivitis. This condition refers to the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent membrane that lines the eyelids and covers the white part of the eyeball. Conjunctivitis is characterized by redness, irritation, and often discharge from the eye. It can be caused by various factors, including bacterial or viral infections, allergens, or irritants.

The clarity of this definition helps in understanding the nature of different eye conditions. For example, blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid's margins, which does not involve the conjunctiva and is not the same as pinkeye. Trichiasis refers to misdirected eyelashes growing inward toward the eye, causing discomfort and potential damage to the cornea, while ectropion involves the eyelid turning outward, which also does not relate to the conjunctiva. Thus, understanding these distinct definitions reinforces why conjunctivitis is the correct answer to the question regarding pinkeye.