Differential Diagnosis for New Onset Floater in One Eye
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Vitreous Detachment: This is the most common cause of new onset floaters in one eye, especially in individuals over 50 years old. It occurs when the vitreous gel separates from the retina, causing floaters due to the shadows cast by the detached vitreous on the retina.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): Similar to vitreous detachment, PVD is a condition where the vitreous gel pulls away from the retina, leading to floaters. It's a common age-related condition.
- Vitreous Degeneration: As people age, the vitreous gel in the eye can degenerate, leading to the formation of floaters.
- Retinal Tear: A retinal tear can cause new onset floaters, especially if it's associated with vitreous detachment. It's less common than vitreous detachment but still a likely cause.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Retinal Detachment: Although less common, retinal detachment is a medical emergency that can cause permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. It often presents with sudden onset of floaters, flashes of light, and a curtain or shadow descending over the field of vision.
- Posterior Uveitis: Inflammation of the posterior segment of the uvea can cause floaters, among other symptoms like blurred vision and eye pain. It's crucial to diagnose and treat to prevent complications.
- Ocular Lymphoma: Though rare, ocular lymphoma can present with floaters, among other symptoms. It's essential to consider in the differential diagnosis to ensure timely treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Vitreous Hemorrhage: Bleeding into the vitreous gel can cause sudden onset of floaters, but it's less common and usually associated with other symptoms like sudden vision loss.
- Intraocular Tumors: Tumors within the eye, such as choroidal melanoma, can cause floaters, but they are rare and often associated with other symptoms or findings on examination.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: In people with diabetes, new onset floaters could be a sign of diabetic retinopathy, especially if there's associated vision loss or other retinal findings. However, this would typically be in the context of known diabetes and other retinal changes.