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Last updated: September 29, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Karli's Condition

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Blepharitis or Hordeolum (Stye): Given Karli's history of dry eyes and a blocked duct, a stye or blepharitis is a common and likely diagnosis. The sudden worsening of symptoms, including swelling, inflammation, and pain, is consistent with a stye or blepharitis.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Chalazion: A chalazion is a blocked oil gland in the eyelid that can cause swelling, inflammation, and pain, similar to Karli's symptoms. Her history of a blocked duct increases the likelihood of this diagnosis.
  • Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, can cause eyelid swelling, inflammation, and pain, especially if it is a bacterial or viral infection.
  • Dacryocystitis: Given Karli's history of a blocked duct, dacryocystitis (inflammation of the tear sac) is a possible diagnosis, especially if the blockage has led to an infection.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Orbital Cellulitis: Although less likely, orbital cellulitis is a serious infection that can cause eyelid swelling, inflammation, and pain. It requires prompt treatment to prevent serious complications, such as vision loss or cavernous sinus thrombosis.
  • Endophthalmitis: This is a rare but serious infection within the eye that can cause severe pain, swelling, and vision loss. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Angioedema: Angioedema is a rare condition that can cause sudden, severe swelling of the eyelids, face, and lips. It can be life-threatening if it affects the airway.
  • Eyelid Malignancy: Although extremely rare, eyelid malignancies such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma can cause swelling, inflammation, and pain. A thorough examination and biopsy would be necessary to diagnose these conditions.

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.

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