A 26-year-old female develops what she thinks is pinkeye: reddened eyes producing a clear discharge. She notices that she cannot tolerate bright sunlight and that she constantly feels as if she has sand in her eyes.
a. Based upon this evidence, what condition is the patient suffering from? Explain whether or not the patient will be prescribed an antibiotic to treat her condition.
b. The physician asks whether or not she has recently had a sexual encounter with an individual who had a sexually transmitted infection. She is shocked by the question. Formulate an explanation that will allow her to see the connection between her diagnosis and this very personal question.