Differential Diagnosis for Eyelid Swelling and Conjunctivitis
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: This is often the most common cause of eyelid swelling and conjunctivitis, especially in individuals with a history of allergies. It is characterized by itching, redness, and swelling of the conjunctiva and eyelids, typically bilateral and associated with other allergic symptoms.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Blepharitis: An inflammation of the eyelids that can cause swelling, redness, and conjunctivitis. It is often associated with meibomian gland dysfunction or seborrheic dermatitis.
- Viral Conjunctivitis: Commonly caused by adenovirus, this condition leads to redness, itching, and swelling of the conjunctiva and can be highly contagious.
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Haemophilus influenzae, it presents with purulent discharge, redness, and swelling.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Orbital Cellulitis: A serious infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can cause eyelid swelling, conjunctivitis, and potentially lead to severe complications like vision loss or cavernous sinus thrombosis if not promptly treated.
- Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus: Shingles affecting the eye, which can cause severe pain, eyelid swelling, and conjunctivitis. It requires urgent antiviral treatment to prevent complications.
- Angioedema: A condition characterized by rapid swelling of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, mucosa, and submucosal tissues. It can cause significant eyelid swelling and, if part of an anaphylactic reaction, can be life-threatening.
Rare Diagnoses
- Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Wegener's Granulomatosis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation of the blood vessels, including those in the eyes, leading to conjunctivitis and eyelid swelling among other systemic symptoms.
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can affect multiple parts of the body, including the eyes, causing uveitis, conjunctivitis, and eyelid swelling due to granulomatous inflammation.
- Trachoma: A chronic infection of the eye caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, leading to conjunctivitis and potentially causing eyelid swelling, more common in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene.