Orbital Cellulitis

- Initial soft tissue swelling, redness, and increased warmth of the eyelids.

- Progresses to impairment of extraocular motility, globe proptosis, ocular pain, diplopia and/or decreased vision.

- Consult Ophthalmology, Otolaryngology and Infectious Diseases.

- Obtain urgent CT scan of orbit and sinuses and blood cultures.

- Surgical intervention recommended if:

  • abscess > 1cm
  • marked fever on admission
  • lack of response to medical therapy
  • concern for optic nerve or retinal compromise.

- Complications include visual loss from optic neuropathy, cavernous sinus thrombosis, meningitis, and intracranial infections.