Definition:

Pharyngoconjunctival fever (PCF) is a syndrome attributed to human adenovirus B, particularly serotype 3, which causes small outbreaks, mainly among children. The syndrome may occur sporadically and can cause outbreaks in families and other closed populations. The main sources of infection are contaminated waters of swimming pools and water reservoirs. Acute onset of PCF comprises fever, pharyngitis, rhinitis, cervical adenopathies and bulbar and palpebral conjunctivitis with moderate follicular reaction which can last for 3-5 days. PCF associated ocular inflammation begins unilateral and generally becomes bilateral in the course of the disease.