Differential Diagnosis for Unilateral Eye Redness in a 13-Year-Old Female
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Conjunctivitis (Viral or Allergic): This is the most common cause of unilateral eye redness, especially in the absence of drainage. Viral conjunctivitis often presents with redness, irritation, and sometimes a watery discharge, while allergic conjunctivitis may be accompanied by itching and is often bilateral but can start unilaterally.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can cause redness, itching, and sometimes a gritty sensation in the eye. It's a common condition that can be unilateral.
- Dry Eye Syndrome: Although more common in older adults, dry eye can occur in teenagers, especially with prolonged screen time, and can cause eye redness.
- Corneal Abrasion: A scratch on the cornea can cause significant pain, redness, and sensitivity to light, usually affecting one eye.
- Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea, which can be caused by infection, injury, or autoimmune disorders, leading to eye redness, pain, and sensitivity to light.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A medical emergency that can cause severe eye pain, redness, blurred vision, and sometimes nausea and vomiting. It's crucial to diagnose and treat promptly to prevent permanent vision loss.
- Endophthalmitis: A severe infection within the eye that can follow trauma or surgery, presenting with severe pain, redness, and decreased vision. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Orbital Cellulitis: An infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, which can cause redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes fever. It can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
Rare Diagnoses
- Scleritis: Inflammation of the sclera, the white part of the eye, which can cause severe pain, redness, and tenderness to the touch. It's less common and often associated with systemic autoimmune diseases.
- Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea, which can be caused by infection or injury, leading to pain, redness, and blurred vision. While not extremely rare, it's less common than conjunctivitis or blepharitis.