Lymphangioma of the orbit
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Lymphangiomas are not classified as tumors, they are a developmental malformation, representing non-functioning benign vascular malformations that pass through the entire orbit and sometimes the oropharynx. Although lymphangiomas are not included in the blood circulation system, hemorrhage from them into the cavity can lead to the formation of blood-filled "chocolate" cysts.
Lymphangioma of the orbit manifests itself usually in childhood.
[Symptoms of lymphangioma of the orbit
- with anterior localization is an accumulation of bluish soft formations in the upper-nosed quadrant in combination with cysts on the conjunctiva;
- with posterior localization may cause a slowly progressing exophthalmus or be initially asymptomatic, and then manifest as sudden painful exophthalmos due to spontaneous hemorrhage. Blood is encapsulated with the formation of "chocolate" cysts, which over time can regress itself.
How to examine?
Treatment of orbital lymphangioma
Treatment of the lymphangioma of the orbit by surgical removal is difficult, since lymphangiomas are fragile, do not have a capsule, easily bleed and can infiltrate normal orbital tissues. Persistent vision threatening "chocolate" cysts need to be drained or partially evaporated with a carbon dioxide laser.