Differential Diagnosis for 68-year-old Female with Left Side Facial Swelling
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dental Abscess or Infection: Given the age and presentation of facial swelling, a dental abscess or infection is a common cause, especially if there's a history of dental issues or poor dental hygiene. The swelling could be due to an infection spreading from a tooth to the surrounding facial tissues.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Parotid Gland Disorders: Conditions affecting the parotid gland, such as parotitis (inflammation of the gland) or a parotid cyst, could cause facial swelling, particularly if the swelling is localized near the jawline.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses can lead to facial swelling, especially if the maxillary sinuses are involved, as they are located in the cheek area.
- Lymphadenitis or Lymphoma: Enlargement of the lymph nodes due to infection (lymphadenitis) or cancer (lymphoma) could present as facial swelling, especially if the nodes in the neck or face are affected.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cellulitis or Erysipelas: Bacterial infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissues that can spread rapidly and potentially lead to serious complications, including sepsis. Early recognition and treatment are crucial.
- Ludwig's Angina: A severe infection of the tissues in the neck, which can cause significant swelling and potentially life-threatening airway obstruction. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Temporal Arteritis (Giant Cell Arteritis): An inflammatory condition affecting the blood vessels, which can lead to facial pain, swelling, and visual disturbances. It's essential to diagnose and treat promptly to prevent complications like blindness.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition characterized by the growth of granulomas (inflammatory cells) in various parts of the body, including the face, which can cause swelling and other symptoms.
- Wegener's Granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation of the blood vessels, leading to a variety of symptoms, including facial swelling.
- Salivary Gland Tumors: While rare, tumors of the salivary glands (benign or malignant) can cause facial swelling, especially if they grow large enough to exert pressure on surrounding tissues.