Differential Diagnosis for White Spot on Eyeball
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Pinguecula: A common, benign growth on the conjunctiva, often appearing as a white or yellowish spot, usually near the cornea. It's more likely due to its high prevalence and association with environmental factors like UV exposure.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Pterygium: A growth of the conjunctiva or mucous membrane that covers the white part of your eye over the cornea, which is the clear tissue on the front of your eye. It can appear as a white spot and is often related to UV exposure and dry environments.
- Corneal Ulcer: An open sore on the cornea, which can appear white due to the infiltration of inflammatory cells. It's a significant condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent vision loss.
- Corneal Scar: Scarring from previous corneal injuries or infections can appear as white spots on the eyeball.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Retinoblastoma: A rare form of cancer that can cause a white reflex or spot in the pupil, known as leukocoria. Although rare, it's critical to diagnose early due to its potential for severe consequences, including blindness and death.
- Coats Disease: A rare eye disorder characterized by abnormal development of blood vessels behind the retina, leading to retinal detachment. It can present with a white reflex due to the presence of exudates.
- Toxocara Infection: A parasitic infection that can cause a white spot in the retina, known as a "headlight in the fog" appearance due to surrounding inflammation.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can lead to dry eyes and potentially cause white spots due to corneal or conjunctival changes.
- Lymphoma: Certain types of lymphoma can manifest in the eye, presenting as white spots or masses, though this is exceedingly rare.
- Ocular Tuberculosis: A rare condition where tuberculosis affects the eye, potentially causing white spots among other symptoms like uveitis or retinal vasculitis.