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Last updated: October 14, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Eye Infection

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Conjunctivitis: This is the most common eye infection, often caused by viruses or bacteria, and presents with symptoms such as redness, itching, and discharge. It's highly prevalent and matches the broad description of an "eye infection."

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Blepharitis: An inflammation of the eyelids that can be caused by infection, leading to redness, swelling, and crust formation around the eyelashes.
  • Keratitis: An infection of the cornea, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, and presents with pain, redness, and blurred vision.
  • Endophthalmitis: A severe inflammation of the interior of the eye, usually caused by infection, which can lead to severe vision loss if not promptly treated.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Although not an infection per se, it can present with severe eye pain and redness, mimicking an infection, and is an emergency due to the risk of permanent vision loss.
  • Orbital Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can lead to serious complications, including vision loss and cavernous sinus thrombosis, if not promptly treated.
  • Syphilis: Can cause a range of eye symptoms, including uveitis and retinitis, and is important to consider due to its potential for severe and irreversible damage if left untreated.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Fungal Keratitis: More common in contact lens wearers or after trauma to the cornea, it can lead to severe and difficult-to-treat infections.
  • Acanthamoeba Keratitis: A rare but serious infection of the cornea caused by a parasite, often seen in contact lens wearers, which can result in significant pain and potential vision loss.
  • Toxoplasmosis: A parasitic infection that can reactivate in the eye, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, leading to retinochoroiditis and potential vision loss.

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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