Differential Diagnosis for Discharge from Eye in a 17-Day-Old Female
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Neonatal conjunctivitis (Chemical or Infectious): This is the most common cause of eye discharge in newborns, often due to exposure to prophylactic eye drops or infectious agents during birth.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Blocked tear duct (Nasolacrimal duct obstruction): A common condition in newborns where the tear duct is blocked, leading to excessive tearing and discharge.
- Viral conjunctivitis: Can be caused by various viruses, leading to eye discharge, redness, and irritation.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: Caused by bacterial infection, often presenting with purulent discharge and redness.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Gonococcal conjunctivitis: A severe infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which can lead to corneal perforation and blindness if not promptly treated.
- Chlamydial conjunctivitis: Caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, which can lead to long-term vision problems if left untreated.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) conjunctivitis: Can cause severe eye disease, including keratitis and retinitis, if not recognized and treated early.
Rare Diagnoses
- Congenital glaucoma: A rare condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure, which can cause tearing, discharge, and redness in newborns.
- Dacryocystitis: An infection of the lacrimal sac, which can cause discharge, redness, and swelling in the area around the eye.
- Congenital anomalies of the eye: Such as coloboma or microphthalmia, which can present with abnormal eye discharge or tearing.