Differential Diagnosis for Pediatric Swollen Face
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Allergic Reaction: This is often the most common cause of a swollen face in children, typically resulting from an allergic reaction to food, insect bites, or environmental factors. The swelling is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, itching, and possibly difficulty breathing.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Dental Abscess or Infection: Infections of the teeth or gums can cause swelling of the face, particularly if the infection is severe or has spread to surrounding tissues.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses can lead to facial swelling, especially in the area around the eyes and cheeks.
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and warmth of the skin, often affecting the face.
- Insect Bite or Sting: Reactions to insect bites or stings can vary from mild to severe and may cause significant facial swelling.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Angioedema: A condition characterized by the rapid swelling of the skin and mucous membranes, which can be life-threatening if it involves the airways. It often requires immediate medical attention.
- Ludwig's Angina: A severe infection of the tissues in the neck, which can cause swelling of the face and neck and may lead to airway obstruction.
- Orbital Cellulitis: An infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can cause swelling, redness, and pain around the eye and may threaten vision if not promptly treated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (formerly known as Wegener's Granulomatosis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation of the blood vessels and lead to a variety of symptoms, including facial swelling.
- Sarcoidosis: A condition in which inflammatory cells form lumps known as granulomas in various parts of the body, including the face, leading to swelling.
- Hemangioma or Other Vascular Malformations: Although often present at birth or noticed early in life, these can sometimes become more apparent or symptomatic later, leading to facial swelling.
- Eosinophilic Granuloma with Facial Involvement: Part of a group of diseases known as Langerhans cell histiocytosis, which can cause swelling and lesions in various parts of the body, including the face.