Differential Diagnosis for Swollen Eyelid with Yellow Discharge

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Blepharitis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the eyelids, often resulting in swelling, redness, and discharge. The yellow discharge is typical of a bacterial infection, which is commonly seen in blepharitis. It's a common condition that can be caused by poor eyelid hygiene, allergies, or bacterial infections.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This is an infection or inflammation of the outer membrane of the eyeball and the inner eyelid. It can cause redness, itching, and discharge, which can be yellow or greenish in color. Conjunctivitis can be viral, bacterial, or allergic in nature.
• Stye (Hordeolum): A stye is a localized infection or inflammation of the eyelid margin involving hair follicles of the eyelashes (external hordeolum) or meibomian glands (internal hordeolum). It presents as a painful, swollen nodule on the eyelid, often with yellow discharge.
• Chalazion: This is a small bump on the eyelid due to a blocked oil gland. While it's usually painless and doesn't typically cause discharge, if it becomes infected, it could present with swelling and discharge.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Orbital Cellulitis: This is an infection of the soft tissues surrounding the eye, which can lead to serious complications if not promptly treated. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and pain around the eye, and it can be accompanied by discharge. It's crucial to differentiate this from less severe conditions due to its potential for serious morbidity.
• Endophthalmitis: Although less common and typically associated with recent eye surgery or trauma, endophthalmitis is a severe inflammation of the interior of the eye, usually caused by infection. It can present with severe eye pain, redness, swelling, and vision changes, along with discharge.

Rare Diagnoses

• Dacryocystitis: This is an infection or inflammation of the lacrimal sac, usually caused by a blockage of the nasolacrimal duct. It can cause swelling, redness, and discharge, but it's less common compared to other conditions listed here.
• Erysipelas: A type of skin infection that can affect the eyelid, causing swelling, redness, and sometimes discharge. It's less common in this area but should be considered, especially if there's a history of similar infections or underlying conditions predisposing to it.