Differential Diagnosis for Swollen Eyelid
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Blepharitis: This is an inflammation of the eyelids that can cause swelling, redness, and itching. It's a common condition and often the first consideration for swollen eyelids due to its prevalence and the broad range of symptoms it can present.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): An infection or inflammation of the outer membrane of the eyeball and the inner eyelid. It can cause swelling, redness, and discharge.
- Stye (Hordeolum): A localized infection or inflammation of the eyelid margin involving hair follicles of the eyelashes or meibomian glands. It presents as a painful, swollen nodule on the eyelid.
- Allergic Reaction: Allergies can cause eyelid swelling, especially if the individual has come into contact with an allergen. This could be due to makeup, pollen, or other environmental factors.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Orbital Cellulitis: A serious infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can lead to severe complications if not promptly treated. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and pain around the eye, and it can be life-threatening.
- Angioedema: A condition characterized by the rapid swelling of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, mucosa, and submucosal tissues. It can be life-threatening if it affects the airways.
- Rare diagnoses
- Thyroid Eye Disease: A condition in which the tissues around the eye, including the eyelids, eye socket, and lacrimal gland, become inflamed due to Graves' disease. It can cause eyelid swelling among other symptoms.
- Sarcoidosis: A disease characterized by the growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells (granulomas) in any part of the body — most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes — but can also affect the eyes, causing uveitis, and potentially leading to eyelid swelling.