Differential Diagnosis for Inflamed Canthus Cyst
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Hordeolum (Stye): This is the most common cause of an inflamed canthus cyst. A hordeolum is an acute, localized infection or inflammation of the eyelid margin involving hair follicles of the eyelashes (external hordeolum) or meibomian glands (internal hordeolum).
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Chalazion: A chalazion is a small bump on the eyelid due to a blocked oil gland. While it's usually painless and not typically described as a "cyst," an inflamed chalazion could present similarly to an inflamed canthus cyst.
- Epidermoid Cyst: These are benign cysts that can occur anywhere on the skin, including the eyelids. They can become inflamed if infected or irritated.
- Sebaceous Cyst: Similar to epidermoid cysts, sebaceous cysts can occur on the eyelids and become inflamed.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Orbital Cellulitis: Although less common, orbital cellulitis is a serious infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can present with eyelid swelling and could be mistaken for an inflamed cyst. It requires prompt medical attention.
- Dacryocystitis: An infection of the lacrimal sac, which can cause swelling, redness, and tenderness in the area of the canthus. It's a serious condition that may lead to more severe complications if not treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Keratoacanthoma: A rare, low-grade malignancy that can mimic a cyst or nodule on the eyelid.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma or Other Skin Cancers: Although rare, skin cancers can present as nodules or cysts on the eyelid and can become inflamed if irritated or infected.