Differential Diagnosis for Yellow Dried Discharge from Eye of 2-Month-Old
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction (NLDO): This condition is very common in infants, where the tear duct fails to open, leading to accumulation of tears and discharge. The yellow coloration is due to the presence of pus or bacterial infection.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Conjunctivitis: This can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens. In a 2-month-old, bacterial conjunctivitis is a common cause of yellow discharge.
- Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can cause discharge, although it's less common in infants.
- Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea can cause discharge, but it's usually accompanied by other symptoms like redness and photophobia.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Gonococcal Conjunctivitis: Although rare, this condition can cause severe conjunctivitis and is a medical emergency. It's usually seen in newborns exposed to gonorrhea during birth.
- Chlamydial Conjunctivitis: Another sexually transmitted infection that can cause conjunctivitis in newborns, often with a history of maternal chlamydia.
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Keratitis: HSV can cause severe keratitis and conjunctivitis, potentially leading to vision loss if not treated promptly.
Rare Diagnoses
- Dacryocystitis: Infection of the lacrimal sac, which can cause discharge and swelling, but is less common in infants without a history of nasolacrimal duct obstruction.
- Congenital Glaucoma: Although not typically presenting with discharge, it can cause tearing and redness, and is a rare but important diagnosis to consider in infants with eye symptoms.