Differential Diagnosis for Conjunctival Bleeding and Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of conjunctival bleeding and bacterial conjunctivitis, as bacterial infections are a common cause of conjunctivitis and can lead to bleeding due to the inflammatory response.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Viral conjunctivitis: Although less likely than bacterial conjunctivitis to cause bleeding, viral conjunctivitis can also lead to significant inflammation and potentially bleeding, especially if caused by certain viruses like herpes simplex.
- Allergic conjunctivitis: Allergic reactions can cause significant conjunctival inflammation, which might lead to bleeding, especially in severe cases or with certain allergens.
- Chemical conjunctivitis: Exposure to irritants or chemicals can cause conjunctival inflammation and potentially bleeding, depending on the severity of the exposure.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Gonococcal conjunctivitis: This is a severe form of bacterial conjunctivitis caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which can lead to rapid progression and severe complications, including vision loss if not promptly treated.
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause conjunctivitis and potentially bleeding due to dryness and inflammation of the conjunctiva, though it's less directly associated with acute bleeding.
- Orbital cellulitis: While not directly causing conjunctival bleeding, orbital cellulitis is a serious infection that can lead to proptosis, vision loss, and other severe complications if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Conjunctival amyloidosis: A rare condition characterized by the deposition of amyloid in the conjunctiva, which can lead to bleeding due to the fragility of the affected tissues.
- Kaposi's sarcoma: A type of cancer that can affect the conjunctiva, especially in immunocompromised patients, and can cause bleeding lesions.
- Wegener's granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can affect various parts of the body, including the eyes, leading to conjunctivitis and potentially bleeding due to the inflammatory nature of the disease.