Differential Diagnosis for Blurry Vision and Floaters
The patient's symptoms of blurry vision and floaters in bilateral eyes can be caused by a variety of conditions. Here is a differential diagnosis organized into categories:
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): This condition is a common cause of floaters and blurry vision, especially in older adults. It occurs when the vitreous gel in the eye separates from the retina, leading to the symptoms described.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Vitreous Degeneration: Similar to PVD, vitreous degeneration can cause floaters and blurry vision due to the breakdown of the vitreous gel.
- Retinal Tear or Detachment: Although more severe, retinal tears or detachments can present with similar symptoms and should be considered, especially if there is a history of trauma or previous eye surgery.
- Migraine: Ocular migraines can cause transient visual disturbances, including blurry vision and floaters.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Retinal Vein Occlusion: This condition can cause sudden vision loss and may present with floaters. It is crucial to diagnose promptly to initiate treatment.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: In patients with diabetes, diabetic retinopathy can cause vision changes, including floaters, and is essential to diagnose to prevent further vision loss.
- Central Retinal Artery Occlusion: Although rare, this condition is an ophthalmologic emergency that can cause sudden, painless vision loss and may present with floaters.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Ocular Lymphoma: A rare condition that can cause vision changes, including floaters, due to lymphoma affecting the eye.
- Intraocular Inflammation (Uveitis): Certain types of uveitis can cause floaters and vision changes, although this is less common.
- Choroidal Melanoma: A rare type of eye cancer that can cause vision changes, including floaters, although it is much less common than other causes.
Each of these diagnoses has a different level of urgency and treatment approach, emphasizing the importance of a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms.