Bacterial and viral infections involving the anterior segment of the eye and ocular adnexa present commonly in general practice, affecting patients of all ages. Careful assessment of the patient is necessary to distinguish between benign conditions and those with more serious complications. An understanding of the microbiology and pathogenesis of these conditions is helpful in rationalising current therapeutic approaches. This article focuses on the clinical presentation of common infections of the lids, conjunctiva and cornea, with a discussion of relevant therapeutic regimens for each condition.