Key points Definition: An autoimmune inflammatory disorder affecting the orbit with leukocytic infiltration causing erythema, edema, conjunctivitis, and upper lid retraction. Synonyms: Graves ophthalmopathy, thyroid orbitopathy, thyroid eye disease (TED), thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO). Classic clue: Bilateral extraocular muscle (EOM)…
Key points Definition: Optic disc drusen (ODD) are tiny yellow or white globules of hyaline-like material deposited on or below the surface of the optic disc, which progressively calcify producing visual field defects. Also known as optic nerve head drusen…
Key points Definition: Cataracts cloud the normally clear ocular lens, block the passage of light to the retina, and cause decreased vision and blindness if untreated. Classic clue: An elderly patient who complains of night “glare” and decreasing vision, with…
Imaging General imaging features Imaging studies show thinning of the sclera with focal bulge. May be unilateral or bilateral. Computed tomography features Computed tomography (CT) shows bulging of posterior aspect of the globe away from optic disc, usually on the…
Imaging Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has the unique ability to characterize hemorrhage using hemoglobin’s paramagnetic qualities and makes it ideally suited to evaluate VLM. MRI clearly demonstrates the internal structure of subacute and chronic hemorrhagic cysts based on paramagnetic qualities.…
Key points Definition: Orbital venous varix (OVV) is a rare intraorbital vascular malformation composed of single or multiple venous channels that may enlarge intermittently with changes in venous pressure. Synonym: Orbital venous malformation. Classic clue: Patients present with enophthalmos or…
Key points Definition: Cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) is a potentially life-threatening complication usually secondary to infection, commonly coming from nose, sinuses, ears, or teeth. Synonyms: Cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis, septic cavernous sinus thrombosis. Classic clue: Patient presents with recent-onset HA, photophobia,…
Key points Definition: Carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF) is an abnormal connection between the carotid artery and/or its branches and the cavernous sinus (CS). Classic clue: Patient presents with an acute onset of Dandy’s triad with pulsatile proptosis, chemosis, and bruit accompanied…
Key points Definition: Congenital anophthalmia (CA) is a rare malformation causing unilateral, or bilateral eye absence. Classic clue: Anophthalmia is discovered at delivery and frequently found by fetal ultrasound (US). Anophthalmia is the medical term for absence of eyes coming…
Key points Definition: Congenital orbital teratomas (COTs) are rare tumors. They are usually benign, complex masses with cystic and solid components containing a mixture of fat, calcium, and bone. Synonyms: Orbital teratomas, teratomas. Classic clue: Huge orbital mass containing cystic…