Differential Diagnosis for Inner Canthus Puffiness
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Allergic Rhinitis: This condition is characterized by an allergic reaction to airborne allergens, leading to inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages and surrounding areas, including the inner canthus.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can cause puffiness around the eyes, including the inner canthus, due to meibomian gland dysfunction or other factors.
- Sinusitis: Infection or inflammation of the sinuses can lead to swelling and puffiness in the facial area, including the inner canthus, due to the proximity of the sinuses to the eyes.
- Dacryocystitis: Inflammation of the lacrimal sac can cause swelling and puffiness in the inner canthus area, often accompanied by discharge or tearing.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Orbital Cellulitis: A serious infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can cause severe swelling, including puffiness of the inner canthus, and requires prompt medical attention to prevent serious complications.
- Thyroid Ophthalmopathy: Although less common, thyroid eye disease can cause swelling and puffiness around the eyes, including the inner canthus, due to autoimmune inflammation.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma or Other Tumors: Rarely, a tumor in the medial canthal area can cause localized swelling and puffiness.
Rare Diagnoses
- Wegener's Granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and damage to various parts of the body, including the eyes, leading to puffiness and other symptoms.
- Sarcoidosis: Another rare condition that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the eyes, leading to symptoms such as puffiness in the inner canthus area.