Orbital Cellulitis (Soft Tissue Eye Infection)
Description
An infection of the soft tissue surrounding the eye. Commonly a bacteria from a sinusitis is the primary source of infection. In children Haemophilus influenza is a common bacteria, other pathogens include: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and beta-hemolytic streptococci. Other causes include a stye, bug bites, or a recent eyelid injury. The infection can be very serious and lead to blindness.
Symptoms
Fever, painful swelling of upper and lower eyelids, shiny red or purple eyelid, eye pain, eye pain with movement, decreased vision, bulging eyes, general malaise.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests to determine the extent of disease and cultures to identify the bacteria may be done. A CT scan or MRI will delineate the severity and size of the infection, and possibly the primary source of infection such as sinusitis.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
Aggressive treatment is required since an orbital cellulitis infection can get worse very quickly. intravenous antibiotics are generally administered. Surgery may be needed to drain the abscess.
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