Orbital Tumors
Including Dermoid Cysts in Children
Tumors are abnormal growths of tissue that can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Tumors situated on the orbit, or eye socket, should be evaluated and treated as soon as possible. A cancerous tumor requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of an Orbital Tumor
A tumor can cause pain or damage to the eye, and include symptoms such as:
- Blocked tear ducts
- A partial loss of vision
- Double or blurry vision
- A swollen appearance
- Difficulty in closing the eye completely
- Floaters
- A change in the position or movement of the eye in the socket
- A change in the size of the pupil
- A change in the color of the iris
Diagnosis of an Orbital Tumor
After a thorough medical examination of the eyes, a series of diagnostic tests will be conducted to confirm the diagnosis of an orbital tumor. Some of these tests may include:
- Dilation of the eye
- Slit lamp examination
- CT scan
- MRI
- Ultrasound
- X-ray
- Gonioscopy
If an orbital tumor is found, a surgical biopsy, known as an orbitotomy, may be performed to determine if the tumor is benign or malignant.
Treatment of an Orbital Tumor
Depending upon the type of tumor, its size, and location, there are numerous treatment options available. In some cases, surgery will be recommended to fully remove the tumor. In other cases, it may be best treated with:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation or immunotherapy
- Laser therapy
- Cryosurgery
