Differential Diagnosis for Swollen Eyelid
The following is a list of potential diagnoses for a swollen eyelid, categorized by likelihood and potential impact.
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Blepharitis: This is an inflammation of the eyelids that can cause swelling, redness, and itching. It's a common condition and often related to poor eyelid hygiene, Demodex mites, or rosacea.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): An infection or inflammation of the outer membrane of the eyeball and the inner eyelid. It can be viral, bacterial, or allergic, leading to swelling, redness, and discharge.
- Hordeolum (Stye): A localized infection or inflammation of the eyelid margin involving hair follicles of the eyelashes or meibomian glands. It presents as a painful, swollen nodule on the eyelid.
- Chalazion: A small bump on the eyelid due to a blocked oil gland. It can cause swelling and may become inflamed or infected.
- Allergic Reaction: Allergies to makeup, contact lens solution, or other substances can cause eyelid swelling, redness, and itching.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Orbital Cellulitis: A serious infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can lead to severe complications if not promptly treated. Symptoms include swelling, redness, pain, and decreased eye movement.
- Angioedema: A condition characterized by rapid swelling of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, mucosa, and submucosal tissues. It can be life-threatening if it involves the airway.
- Herpes Zoster (Shingles): When it affects the eye, it's known as herpes zoster ophthalmicus. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and potentially lead to complications like vision loss if not treated.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Graves' Disease: An autoimmune disorder that can cause bulging eyes (exophthalmos) and eyelid swelling among other symptoms.
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can affect various parts of the body, including the eyes, leading to uveitis, conjunctivitis, and eyelid swelling.
- Wegener's Granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can affect the eyes, among other areas, causing inflammation and damage.
Each of these diagnoses has distinct features and potential consequences, emphasizing the importance of a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of a swollen eyelid.