Differential Diagnosis for Injected Conjunctiva
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral Conjunctivitis: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the presence of injected conjunctiva and light sensitivity without any history of trauma or foreign body. Viral conjunctivitis is a common condition that can cause these symptoms.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis: This condition can also cause injected conjunctiva and light sensitivity. It is often accompanied by a purulent discharge, which may or may not be present in this case.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Allergic reactions can cause conjunctival injection and sensitivity to light. A history of allergies or exposure to allergens would support this diagnosis.
- Iritis: Inflammation of the iris can cause light sensitivity and conjunctival injection. It is often accompanied by pain and decreased vision.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This is a medical emergency that can cause severe eye pain, light sensitivity, and conjunctival injection. It requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
- Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea can cause light sensitivity and conjunctival injection. It can be caused by infection, trauma, or other conditions.
- Scleritis: Inflammation of the sclera can cause severe eye pain, light sensitivity, and conjunctival injection. It is often associated with systemic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Toxic Conjunctivitis: Exposure to certain toxins or chemicals can cause conjunctival injection and light sensitivity.
- Parasitic Conjunctivitis: Certain parasites such as loa loa or onchocerca can cause conjunctivitis, although this is rare in most parts of the world.
- Malignant Tumors: Rarely, conjunctival injection and light sensitivity can be caused by malignant tumors such as lymphoma or squamous cell carcinoma.