Orbital Cellulitis
Article Sections
Introduction
Orbital cellulitis is a severe infection involving the structures of the posterior orbit, specifically the extraocular muscles and orbital fat. The globe itself is not affected. Orbital cellulitis is a medical emergency because it can lead to permanent vision loss as well as intracranial complications such as meningitis and cavernous sinus thrombosis.
Anatomy
The orbital septum is a fascial membrane that forms a boundary between the anterior and posterior orbit (Figure 1). It extends vertically from the superior and inferior orbital rims to the upper and lower eyelids, respectively. It acts to prevent anterior infection of the eyelids and periorbital soft tissues (ie, preseptal cellulitis) from migrating into the deeper structures of the posterior orbit.
Pathogenesis and risk factors
Orbital cellulitis tends to occur more often in young children, but it can occur at any age. The infection is typically caused by the
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