Differential Diagnosis for Lower Eyelid Redness and Swelling
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Allergic conjunctivitis: This is a common condition that can cause redness, swelling, and itching of the eyelids, often due to an allergic reaction to pollen, dust, or other environmental factors.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Blepharitis: An inflammation of the eyelids that can cause redness, swelling, and crustiness, often associated with bacterial or demodex mite infestations.
- Hordeolum (stye): A localized infection or inflammation of the eyelid margin, which can cause redness, swelling, and pain.
- Chalazion: A small bump on the eyelid due to a blocked oil gland, which can cause redness, swelling, and tenderness.
- Eczema or atopic dermatitis: A chronic skin condition that can cause redness, swelling, and itching of the eyelids.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses:
- Orbital cellulitis: A serious infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can cause redness, swelling, and pain, and potentially lead to vision loss or other complications if not promptly treated.
- Angioedema: A severe allergic reaction that can cause rapid swelling of the eyelids, face, and airways, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic inflammatory disease that can cause granulomatous inflammation of the eyelids, leading to redness and swelling.
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's granulomatosis): A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and damage to the blood vessels, including those in the eyelids, leading to redness and swelling.
- Malignant tumors: Rarely, redness and swelling of the eyelid can be a sign of a malignant tumor, such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma.