Differential Diagnosis for a 7-year-old female with swelling around the left eye
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Allergic conjunctivitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of swelling around the eye, itching, and the eye itself appearing normal and having a normal color. Allergic reactions are common in children and can be triggered by various allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Periorbital cellulitis: This is an infection of the skin and tissues around the eye, which can cause swelling, redness, and warmth. Although the eye itself looks normal, the presence of swelling and itching could suggest a mild or early infection.
- Insect bite or sting: An insect bite or sting around the eye can cause localized swelling and itching, which fits the patient's symptoms.
- Contact dermatitis: Irritation from contact with an allergen or irritant, such as certain cosmetics, soaps, or plants, can cause swelling and itching around the eye.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- Orbital cellulitis: Although less likely than periorbital cellulitis due to the lack of severe symptoms like proptosis or limited eye movement, orbital cellulitis is a serious infection within the orbit that requires prompt treatment to prevent complications like vision loss or cavernous sinus thrombosis.
- Angioedema: A severe allergic reaction that can cause rapid swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which can lead to airway obstruction. Although the eye itself looks normal, angioedema should be considered, especially if there's a history of allergic reactions.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Granuloma faciale: A rare skin condition characterized by single or multiple, benign, reddish-brown plaques or nodules, typically on the face, which could potentially cause swelling around the eye.
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the skin around the eyes, leading to swelling and other symptoms. However, this would be extremely rare in a child and would likely be accompanied by other systemic symptoms.