Pseudomembranous conjunctivitis caused by Escherichia coli in a newborn

Pseudomembranous conjunctivitis, caused by inflammation of the conjunctiva, is characterized by conjunctival injection, mucopurulent discharge, and formation of a thin membrane overlying the conjunctiva. This is often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. This case report discusses pseudomembranous conjunctivitis from Escherichia coli in a newborn infant which, to our knowledge, has not been reported in relevant literature. This infection was likely transmitted perinatally given that the mother of the infant had blood cultures growing E. coli with the same susceptibilities as the newborn. In addition, we discuss relevant literature on the subject including etiologies, management, and complications of pseudomembranous conjunctivitis.