Orbital Tumors
The orbit is the bony cavity that houses the eye, muscles, orbital fat, nerves, vessels, and lacrimal gland. The term ‘tumor’ is used to describe any benign or malignant lesion in the orbit.
The orbit is the bony cavity that houses the eye, muscles, orbital fat, nerves, vessels, and lacrimal gland.
The term ‘tumor’ is used to describe any benign or malignant lesion in the orbit. The causes, as well as the symptoms, vary.
The most common tumors in children are the following:
- Capillary hemangioma
- Dermoid cyst
- Lymphangioma
- Rhabdomyosarcoma
- Neuroblastoma
The most common tumors in adults are the following:
- Lymphoma
- Cavernous hemangioma
- Lacrimal gland tumors
- Optic nerve meningioma
- Schwannoma
- Metastases
Symptoms vary depending on the type, location, and size of the tumor, as well as the time between diagnosis and treatment.
The most common symptoms are the following:
- bulging eyes (proptosis)
- Double vision
- Palpable mass
- Vision loss
- Pain
- Numbness around the eye
The diagnosis is made both clinically, through a detailed ophthalmological examination, as well as with the help of an imaging modality – CT or MRI.
Sometimes, a biopsy is needed to make the diagnosis before any treatment is commenced.
Treatment varies depending on the type, size and location of the tumor and often requires surgical removal, radiation and/or chemotherapy.
For more information about orbital tumors, Oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Ioannis Chalkias is available to assist you.
