Role of Topical Steroids in Treatment of Viral Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) • Steroids are prescribed to resolve subepithelial and pseudomembranous infiltrates which impair vision. However, they may recur after discontinuing steroids. • Steroids may build life-long dependence. • Steroids may worsen Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infection. Thus, it is contraindicated in patients of HSV.