Differential Diagnosis for Connie's Condition

The patient's symptoms of waking up with her eyes "glued shut" and complaining of blurry vision for a couple of days since feeling ill suggest several potential diagnoses. These can be categorized as follows:

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Conjunctivitis: This is likely the most common cause of waking up with eyes "glued shut" due to the accumulation of discharge during sleep. The blurry vision could be due to the infection or inflammation affecting the conjunctiva.

• Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Blepharitis: An inflammation of the eyelids that can cause crusting around the eyes, leading to them feeling "glued shut" in the morning. It can also cause blurry vision if the inflammation affects the cornea or if there is significant tearing or discharge.
  • Dry Eye Syndrome: Although less likely to cause the eyes to feel "glued shut," severe dry eye can lead to a sticky sensation and blurry vision due to the lack of adequate tear production or poor tear quality.
  • Keratitis: An inflammation of the cornea that can cause pain, redness, and blurry vision. It might not typically cause the eyes to feel "glued shut" but could be considered if there's significant discharge or if the patient has been rubbing their eyes.

• Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Endophthalmitis: A severe infection within the eye that can cause vision loss. It's less common but critical to diagnose early because it can lead to severe consequences, including blindness. Symptoms can include severe eye pain, redness, and vision loss.
  • Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A medical emergency that can cause sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and vomiting. It's less likely to cause the eyes to feel "glued shut" but is crucial to rule out due to its potential for permanent vision loss.
  • Orbital Cellulitis: An infection of the tissues surrounding the eye that can cause swelling, redness, and vision changes. It might not typically cause the eyes to feel "glued shut" but is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment.

• Rare Diagnoses

  • Trachoma: A chronic infection of the eye caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, leading to scarring of the eyelid and potential blindness. It's rare in many parts of the world but could be considered in areas where it's endemic or in patients with a history of travel to such areas.
  • Gonococcal Conjunctivitis: A severe form of conjunctivitis caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which can lead to rapid vision loss if not treated promptly. It's less common and typically associated with specific risk factors but is a critical diagnosis to consider due to its potential for severe consequences.