Orbital Cellulitis

What is orbital cellulitis?

Orbital cellulitis is a major infection of the soft tissues behind the eye which may involve the cheeks, eyebrows, eyelids and muscles.

What causes orbital cellulitis?

Bacteria or fungi (depending on the underlying cause) typically cause orbital cellulitis, (more commonly in boys, aged 7-12 years of age) usually following one of 3 situations; extension of an infection from a structure nearby like a paranasal sinus, direction infection introduced during from trauma or surgery, or from a bloodstream infection.

What are the symptoms of orbital cellulitis?

Symptoms may develop quickly and include swelling and redness around the eye, bulging eyes, vision problems, eye pain, fever, headache, malaise and trouble moving the eyes. It can rapidly lead to blindness if left untreated.

What are orbital cellulitis care options?

Orbital cellulitis requires emergency medical attention and hospital admission. Antibiotics delivered through a vein and surgical drainage are common treatments.


Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: September 06, 2019 03:01 PM