Differential Diagnosis for One Sided Eye Droop
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis + Ptosis due to Horner's Syndrome: This condition, characterized by a triad of ptosis (drooping eyelid), miosis (pupil constriction), and anhidrosis (lack of sweating), is a common cause of one-sided eye droop. It results from disruption of the sympathetic nerves supplying the eye and can be caused by various factors, including stroke, carotid artery dissection, or tumors affecting the sympathetic pathway.
- Other Likely Diagnoses + Third Cranial Nerve (Oculomotor Nerve) Palsy: This condition affects the nerve that controls most of the eye muscles and the levator palpebrae superioris, leading to ptosis, diplopia (double vision), and pupil dilation on the affected side. It can be caused by aneurysms, diabetes, or trauma. + Myasthenia Gravis: An autoimmune disease that affects the neuromuscular junction, leading to fluctuating muscle weakness, including the muscles controlling eye movements. Ptosis is a common symptom, and it can be unilateral or bilateral.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses + Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can cause ptosis, along with other symptoms like proptosis (bulging eye), chemosis (swelling of the conjunctiva), and cranial nerve palsies. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial. + Carotid Artery Dissection: A condition where there is a tear in the carotid artery, which can lead to stroke or Horner's syndrome. Early recognition is vital to prevent severe complications.
- Rare Diagnoses + Chronic Progressive External Ophthalmoplegia (CPEO): A mitochondrial disorder that affects the external eye muscles, leading to progressive ptosis and limitation of eye movements. It is a rare condition and usually presents bilaterally but can start unilaterally. + Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy: A rare genetic disorder characterized by progressive ptosis and swallowing difficulties. It typically presents in adulthood and can have a unilateral onset before becoming bilateral.