What is a common symptom of viral conjunctivitis?

Viral conjunctivitis, often caused by adenoviruses, typically presents with several hallmark symptoms, one of which is preauricular adenitis. This condition is characterized by the swelling of the lymph nodes located just in front of the ear. The presence of preauricular adenopathy indicates that the conjunctivitis is likely viral in nature, as it reflects a systemic immune response to the virus.

Patients with viral conjunctivitis may experience other symptoms, such as redness, itching, and watery discharge; however, the distinctive feature of preauricular adenitis helps in differentiating it from bacterial conjunctivitis and other causes. This symptom signifies the involvement of the immune system in responding to the viral infection and can also assist healthcare providers in further evaluating and managing the condition appropriately.