Differential Diagnosis for Red Eyes, No Foreign Body Sensation, Pain with Light
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Conjunctivitis: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the symptoms of red eyes and pain with light (photophobia). Conjunctivitis can be caused by viral or bacterial infections and is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, which can lead to redness, discharge, and sensitivity to light.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Iritis (Anterior Uveitis): This condition involves inflammation of the iris and can cause pain, redness, and photophobia. It is often associated with autoimmune disorders or infections.
- Corneal Ulcer: Although the patient reports no foreign body sensation, a corneal ulcer could still be present, especially if it's small or not centrally located. It can cause redness, pain, and photophobia.
- Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can lead to red eyes, discomfort, and sometimes photophobia, especially if the condition is severe or chronic.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This is a medical emergency that can present with sudden onset of red eye, severe pain, and photophobia. It requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
- Endophthalmitis: A severe infection within the eye that can occur after surgery, trauma, or as a result of a blood-borne infection. It is characterized by severe pain, redness, and decreased vision, and is a medical emergency.
- Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea, which can be caused by infection or injury. It can lead to redness, pain, and photophobia, and if not properly treated, can result in serious complications.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Scleritis: Inflammation of the sclera, the white part of the eye, which can cause severe pain, redness, and photophobia. It is less common than other conditions but can be associated with systemic autoimmune diseases.
- Sympathetic Ophthalmia: A rare, inflammatory condition that can occur after penetrating eye injury or surgery, leading to inflammation in the uninjured eye. It is a rare but serious condition that requires prompt treatment.