Differential Diagnosis for Unilateral Floaters
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Vitreous Detachment: This is the most common cause of unilateral floaters, often occurring as a result of age-related changes in the vitreous gel. It is usually benign but can be a precursor to more serious conditions.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Retinal Tear or Detachment: These conditions can cause sudden onset of floaters, especially if they are unilateral. They are emergencies that require immediate medical attention to preserve vision.
- Posterior Uveitis: Inflammation of the posterior segment of the eye can lead to floaters, among other symptoms like blurred vision and eye pain. It has various causes, including infections and autoimmune diseases.
- Vitreous Hemorrhage: Bleeding into the vitreous gel can cause sudden vision changes, including floaters. It often results from diabetes, trauma, or retinal tears.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Retinal Malignancies: Although rare, tumors like retinoblastoma or choroidal melanoma can present with visual disturbances, including floaters. Early detection is crucial for treatment and prognosis.
- Central Nervous System Lymphoma: This rare condition can cause ocular symptoms, including floaters, due to its potential to involve the eye. It requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Rare diagnoses
- Ocular Toxoplasmosis: A parasitic infection that can reactivate in the eye, causing inflammation and symptoms like floaters, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
- Sympathetic Ophthalmia: A rare, inflammatory condition that can occur after penetrating eye injury or surgery, leading to symptoms in the unaffected eye, including floaters.
- Intraocular Foreign Body: Especially if the foreign body is located in the vitreous, it can cause floaters among other symptoms, depending on the material and location of the foreign body.