What is the suspected condition for a 21-year-old college student presenting with copious purulent discharge from her left eye?

The suspected condition for a 21-year-old college student presenting with copious purulent discharge from her left eye is gonococcal conjunctivitis. This type of conjunctivitis is caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria, which can lead to a very significant and thick purulent discharge. It typically presents suddenly and is associated with severe redness, swelling, and discomfort in the affected eye.

Gonococcal conjunctivitis can be a sight-threatening condition, especially if not treated promptly, as it can lead to corneal ulceration and perforation. In sexually active individuals, particularly young adults, it is important to consider gonococcal infection due to its association with sexually transmitted infections.

Other types of conjunctivitis, such as viral conjunctivitis, chlamydial conjunctivitis, and allergic conjunctivitis, may present with different characteristics. Viral conjunctivitis often produces a watery discharge and might be associated with other viral symptoms such as a cold or respiratory infection. Chlamydial conjunctivitis can cause discharge but typically presents with more mild purulent discharge and is often seen in sexually active individuals as well but is less associated with the copious purulence seen in gonococcal cases. Allergic conjunctivitis usually results in