Differential Diagnosis for Flipped Match in Eye
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Corneal Foreign Body: The presentation of a "flipped match" in the eye, which likely refers to a small, thin foreign object (like a match or a piece of glass) getting into the eye, most commonly results in a corneal foreign body. This condition is characterized by the presence of a foreign object on the surface of the cornea, leading to discomfort, pain, redness, and sometimes blurred vision.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Conjunctival Foreign Body: Similar to a corneal foreign body but located on the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. Symptoms can include redness, irritation, and a sensation of something being in the eye.
- Subconjunctival Hemorrhage: This condition, characterized by bleeding underneath the conjunctiva, can sometimes be mistaken for a foreign body due to the appearance of a red patch on the white of the eye. However, it typically does not cause the sensation of having something in the eye.
- Corneal Abrasion: A scratch on the cornea, which can be caused by a foreign body or other means, leading to pain, redness, and sensitivity to light.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Retained Intraocular Foreign Body: Although less likely if the patient only reports a superficial sensation, it's crucial not to miss the possibility of a foreign body that has penetrated the eye. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention to prevent serious complications like infection or vision loss.
- Chemical Burn: If the "match" was actually a chemical substance that got into the eye, this could lead to a chemical burn, which is an emergency requiring immediate flushing of the eye and medical evaluation.
- Endophthalmitis: An infection within the eye that can result from a penetrating injury, including one caused by a foreign body. It's a rare but potentially devastating condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Intraocular Melanoma: Extremely rare and unlikely to present as a sudden onset of a "flipped match" in the eye, but any unexplained change in vision or the appearance of the eye should be evaluated for potential serious conditions.
- Siderosis Bulbi: Caused by a retained iron-containing intraocular foreign body, leading to chronic inflammation and potential vision loss over time. This would be an unlikely initial presentation but could be considered in the differential if an iron foreign body is suspected.