Differential Diagnosis for a 56-year-old Male with Redness of Sclera, Crusting, and Eye Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Blepharitis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the eyelids, which can cause redness, crusting, and eye pain. It's a common condition that can be caused by a bacterial or demodex mite infestation, and its symptoms match the patient's presentation.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Conjunctivitis: This is an inflammation or infection of the outer membrane of the eyeball and the inner eyelid. It can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or allergens, and its symptoms include redness, discharge, and eye pain.
- Keratitis: This is an inflammation of the cornea, which can be caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, and vision problems.
- Dry Eye Syndrome: This condition is characterized by a lack of sufficient lubrication on the surface of the eye, which can cause redness, irritation, and eye pain.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- Endophthalmitis: This is a severe inflammation of the interior of the eye, usually caused by an infection. It's a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to prevent vision loss.
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This is a condition where the pressure in the eye increases rapidly, causing severe eye pain, redness, and vision problems. It's a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
- Orbital Cellulitis: This is an infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can cause redness, swelling, and eye pain. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including vision loss and brain abscess.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Scleritis: This is a severe inflammation of the sclera, which can cause redness, pain, and vision problems. It's a rare condition that can be caused by an autoimmune disorder or infection.
- Episcleritis: This is a mild inflammation of the episclera, which can cause redness and eye pain. It's a rare condition that can be caused by an autoimmune disorder or infection.