Differential Diagnosis for Grey Spot on Conjunctiva in a 4-year-old
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Conjunctival nevus: A benign growth on the conjunctiva, which can appear as a grey spot. It's common in children and usually harmless.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Conjunctival melanosis: A condition characterized by an increase in melanin pigment in the conjunctiva, which can cause grey or brown spots.
- Foreign body: A small object, like dust or an eyelash, that has become lodged in the conjunctiva, causing a grey spot.
- Pinguecula: A yellowish or greyish patch on the conjunctiva, often caused by exposure to UV radiation or dust.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Malignant melanoma: Although rare in children, it's crucial to rule out this potentially life-threatening condition, which can present as a grey spot on the conjunctiva.
- Kaposi's sarcoma: A rare cancer that can cause lesions on the conjunctiva, which may appear as grey spots.
- Lymphoma: Certain types of lymphoma can affect the conjunctiva, causing grey or white lesions.
Rare Diagnoses
- Conjunctival amyloidosis: A rare condition characterized by the deposition of amyloid protein in the conjunctiva, which can cause grey or yellowish spots.
- Conjunctival cyst: A rare, benign cyst that can appear as a grey spot on the conjunctiva.
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause conjunctival lesions, including grey spots, although it's rare in children.