Thrombosed orbital varix -- a correlation between imaging studies and histopathology

Orbit. 2004 Mar;23(1):13-8. doi: 10.1076/orbi.23.1.13.28987.

Abstract

A thrombosed varix in the orbit is comparatively rare. Clinical examination alone is often inadequate for diagnosis. Radio-logical examination, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan of the orbit, is extremely important. Histopathological examination (HPE) after excision biopsy can confirm the diagnosis. The present authors describe a case of proptosis in the left eye of a 45-year-old man. CT-scan and HPE supported the diagnosis of a thrombosed orbital varix. This paper discusses the use of radiological investigations to supplement a clinical suspicion and make the diagnosis. This entity needs to be included in the differential diagnosis of proptosis and requires a coordinated approach for establishment of the diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy, Needle
  • Exophthalmos / diagnosis
  • Exophthalmos / etiology*
  • Exophthalmos / surgery
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures / methods
  • Orbit / blood supply*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Thrombosis / complications
  • Thrombosis / diagnosis*
  • Thrombosis / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ultrasonography, Doppler
  • Varicose Veins / complications
  • Varicose Veins / diagnosis*
  • Varicose Veins / surgery
  • Vision Disorders / diagnosis
  • Vision Disorders / etiology