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Differential Diagnosis for a 41-year-old Female with Right Eye Itchiness, Swelling, and Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Allergic Conjunctivitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of itchiness, swelling, and pain in one eye. Allergic conjunctivitis is a common condition that occurs when the eyes react to an allergen, leading to inflammation and the described symptoms.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Blepharitis: An inflammation of the eyelids that can cause itchiness, swelling, and pain due to bacterial or demodex mite infestation.
  • Dry Eye Syndrome: Although it primarily causes discomfort and vision problems, severe cases can lead to inflammation and pain.
  • Conjunctivitis (Viral or Bacterial): Infections of the conjunctiva can cause redness, swelling, and discharge, along with pain and itchiness.
  • Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea that can result from infection or injury, leading to pain, redness, and sensitivity to light.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A medical emergency that can cause severe eye pain, redness, and swelling, along with vision loss. It's crucial to diagnose promptly to prevent permanent vision loss.
  • Orbital Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the tissues surrounding the eye that can cause swelling, pain, and redness. It requires immediate antibiotic treatment to prevent serious complications.
  • Endophthalmitis: A severe inflammation of the interior of the eye, usually caused by infection. It's a medical emergency that can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Ocular Rosacea: A condition that can cause inflammation of the eyes, leading to symptoms similar to blepharitis, but is associated with rosacea of the skin.
  • Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause dry eyes and other systemic symptoms, though it's less likely to present with acute swelling and pain.
  • Trichiasis or Entropion: Conditions where eyelashes grow inward or the eyelid turns inward, respectively, causing irritation and potentially leading to the described symptoms, though these are more chronic conditions.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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