ABSTRACT
Orbital cellulitis is a retroseptal infection of the extraocular orbital contents presenting with pain, lid edema, proptosis, and diplopia due to impaired extraocular muscle function. A few cases follow penetrating injury or are secondary to panophthalmitis, but the majority occur in association with sinusitis. The condition commonly affects children, where spread to the orbit occurs across the thin orbital plate of the ethmoid bone. Retroseptal infection requires multidisciplinary management because of the risk of extension to the eye or cranial cavity. Subperiosteal abscess with displacement of the globe, or cavernous sinus thrombosis with headache and neck stiffness, can develop. Loculated pus must be drained. Delayed or inadequate treatment may lead to blindness or death.
