Differential Diagnosis for Eye Pain in an 11-Year-Old
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Conjunctivitis: This is a common condition in children, often presenting with eye pain, redness, and discharge. It can be viral or bacterial and is highly contagious.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Dry Eye Syndrome: Although more common in adults, children can also experience dry eye, especially with prolonged screen time or in dry environments, leading to eye pain and discomfort.
- Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can cause eye pain, itching, and redness, and is relatively common in children.
- Corneal Abrasion: A scratch on the cornea can be very painful and is a common injury in children, often resulting from accidents or sports injuries.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Seasonal or perennial allergies can cause eye pain, itching, and redness, and are common in children.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Although rare in children, this condition is an emergency that can cause severe eye pain, blurred vision, and nausea. If not treated promptly, it can lead to permanent vision loss.
- Orbital Cellulitis: An infection of the tissues surrounding the eye can cause severe eye pain, swelling, and fever. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent serious complications.
- Retinal Detachment: While rare in children, retinal detachment can cause sudden eye pain, flashes of light, and floaters. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Keratoconus: A progressive thinning of the cornea that can cause eye pain, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. It is rare and typically presents in late childhood or early adolescence.
- Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, can cause eye pain, redness, and sensitivity to light. It is less common in children but can be associated with systemic diseases.
- Optic Neuritis: Inflammation of the optic nerve can cause eye pain, especially with movement, and vision loss. It is rare in children but can be associated with demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis.