Differential Diagnosis for Eyelid Swelling
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 the first consideration for eyelid swelling due to its prevalence and the broad range of symptoms it can present.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: This condition is characterized by an immune response to allergens, leading to symptoms like itching, redness, and swelling of the eyelids. It's a common issue, especially during allergy seasons or in individuals with known allergies.
- 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, leading to increased swelling and pain.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Orbital Cellulitis: An infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can lead to severe complications if not promptly treated. Symptoms include eyelid swelling, redness, pain, and possibly decreased vision or proptosis (bulging of the eye).
- 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, but when it affects the eyelids, it can cause significant swelling and discomfort.
- Thyroid Ophthalmopathy: Associated with Graves' disease, this condition can cause eyelid swelling, proptosis, and other ocular symptoms due to autoimmune inflammation of the tissues around the eye.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can affect multiple parts of the body, including the eyes. Ocular manifestations can include uveitis, conjunctivitis, and eyelid swelling.
- Wegener's Granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can affect various organs, including the eyes, leading to symptoms like eyelid swelling, conjunctivitis, and scleritis.
- Xanthelasma: A condition characterized by small, yellowish patches or bumps on the eyelids due to lipid deposits. While not typically causing significant swelling, it can be a consideration in the differential diagnosis for eyelid lesions.