The orbit forms the eye socket. It contains the eyeball, the muscles that move the eyeball and the optic nerve. There are many vessels that pass through this area. All of these structures can potentially give rise to the development of a tumor of the orbit. Metastatic tumors can spread to the orbit from other sources of cancer. The majority of tumors that arise in the orbit are benign.
Causes of Orbital Tumor
In children, the majority of orbital tumors are developmental abnormalities. These include dermoids, and hemangiomas. Malignant tumors are rare. In adults, the most common tumors are derived from the blood vessels. These include hemangioma, lymphangioma and arteriovenous malformation. Schwanomas, which are tumors of the nerves may arise as well as lipomas, tumor of the fat. A mucocele, which is an expanding mass caused by entrapment of the lining of the sinus, may erode into the orbit. Malignant tumors in adults include lymphomas. Metastatic tumors to the orbit occur most commonly with prostate and breast cancer. Skin tumors, such as basal or squamous cell carcinoma, may invade the orbit from the skin or the sinus.
Signs and Symptoms of Orbital Tumor
A prominent or bulging eye is often the first sign of an orbit tumor. There may be pain in the orbit. Due to the mass and displacement of the eyeball or muscles, there is often double vision. Compression of the optic nerve can lead to visual loss. The eye may appear red and swollen.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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