Orbital Cellulitis

Orbital cellulitis is an infection inside the eye socket that is mainly found in children. It can be caused by bacteria from an eye infection, insect bites, and injury or stye on the eyelid. It considered a seriously hazardous infection, with the worse case scenario being blindness. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of orbital cellulitis include swelling of the eyelids, pain with eye movement, eye bulge, vision impairment, proptosis, and in severe cases, blindness. Stages of orbital cellulitis symptoms can progress quickly, so immediate treatment is required to avoid adverse effects.

Diagnosis

Orbital cellulitis can be diagnosed by blood and throat culture, spinal tap, X-ray and MRI of the sinuses, and drainage of the eye or nose culture.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment options include intravenous antibiotics and surgery. The HiB vaccination has proven effective in preventing the infection with children. If you believe that you may have an orbital cellulites infection, contact emergency services immediately.