Differential Diagnosis for White Lesion in Eye
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Pinguecula: A benign growth on the conjunctiva, often appearing as a white or yellowish patch, usually caused by exposure to UV radiation, dust, or wind. This is a common condition, especially in older adults, and is often seen in people who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Pterygium: A growth of the conjunctiva or mucous membrane that covers the white part of your eye over the cornea, which is the clear tissue on the front of your eye. It can appear as a white, pink, or red patch and is more common in people who live near the equator.
- Corneal Ulcer: An open sore on the cornea, which can appear white due to the presence of pus or infiltrate. It's a serious condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent vision loss.
- Cataract: A clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision, which can cause a white or grayish appearance in the pupil. It's a common age-related condition but can also be caused by other factors such as trauma or certain medications.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Retinoblastoma: A rare form of cancer that rapidly develops from the immature cells of a retina, which can cause a white reflex or leukocoria (a white pupillary reflex). Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and survival.
- Endophthalmitis: A severe inflammation of the interior of the eye, usually caused by infection. It can present with a white or cloudy appearance in the vitreous and is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
- Coats Disease: A rare eye disorder characterized by abnormal development of blood vessels behind the retina, leading to retinal detachment. It can cause a white reflex due to the presence of exudates.
Rare Diagnoses
- Ocular Lymphoma: A type of cancer that starts in the immune cells called lymphocytes and can affect various parts of the eye, including the conjunctiva, uvea, or retina. It can present with a white lesion among other symptoms.
- Sarcoidosis: An inflammatory disease that affects multiple organs in the body, including the eyes. Ocular sarcoidosis can cause uveitis, which might appear as a white or cloudy patch in the eye.
- Intraocular Toxocariasis: A parasitic infection caused by the Toxocara roundworm, which can lead to a white or yellowish lesion in the retina or vitreous. It's more common in children and individuals with a history of eating dirt or undercooked meat.