What is the cause of a swollen, red medial canthus (corner of the eye)?

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Differential Diagnosis for Swelling Red Corner of Eye

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Blepharitis: This is an inflammation of the eyelids that can cause redness, swelling, and irritation, particularly at the corner of the eye. It's a common condition and often presents with these symptoms.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Conjunctivitis: Also known as pink eye, this condition can cause redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, which may be more pronounced at the corner of the eye. It's highly contagious and can be viral or bacterial.
    • Hordeolum (Stye): A stye is an infection of the oil glands in the eyelid and can cause a red, swollen bump, often at the corner of the eye. It's usually painful and can be accompanied by pus.
    • Chalazion: Similar to a stye but typically larger and less painful, a chalazion is a blockage of the oil glands in the eyelid. It can cause swelling and redness, particularly if it becomes infected.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Orbital Cellulitis: This is a serious infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can cause swelling, redness, and pain. It's a medical emergency because it can lead to vision loss or spread to other parts of the body.
    • Endophthalmitis: An infection within the eye, endophthalmitis is a rare but serious condition that can cause severe inflammation, redness, and swelling. It often requires immediate medical attention to preserve vision.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the eyes. It might lead to dry, red, and swollen eyes, but it's less common and usually part of a broader systemic condition.
    • Gout: Although rare, gout can cause deposits in the eyes, leading to inflammation and swelling, including at the corners. However, this would be part of a systemic condition with other symptoms like joint pain.
    • Ocular Rosacea: A condition that causes inflammation of the eyes, often associated with skin rosacea. It can lead to redness, swelling, and irritation, including at the corners of the eyes, but it's less common and usually accompanied by skin symptoms.

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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