Orbital cellulitis is a serious form of infection within the eye socket or orbit. Take note that this is considered as an emergency. It can lead to lasting blindness if not promptly treated.
What is the cause?
Orbital cellulitis is likely to start after a surgical procedure or injury to the eye. Dental or sinus infections or even skin infections around the eye and eyelids can spread to the eye socket via the thin bones and veins close to the eye. In addition, an infection in a different body part can spread via the bloodstream to the eye.
Generally, the infection is caused by bacteria. In some cases, fungus is the cause if the immune system is weakened by HIV, diabetes, chemotherapy or other conditions.
What are the signs?
The usual signs of orbital cellulitis include:
- Reduced vision or double vision
- Fever
- Swelling, achiness and redness in and around the eye
- Watery, greenish or yellowish drainage from the eye
- Issues in moving the eye in one or several directions
- One eye appears to protrude forward if compared to the other eye
In some cases, runny nose might also be present with these symptoms.
Management of orbital cellulitis
If orbital cellulitis is detected and promptly treated, it will not lead to vision loss. The individual might remain in a healthcare facility and given medications intravenously to manage the infection. In some cases, surgery is needed to drain the infection.