Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: August 20, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

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.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.