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Orbital venous-lymphatic malformations (lymphangiomas) mimicking cavernous hemangiomas
D Selva1, D Strianese, G Bonavolonta
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of British Columbia, 2550 Willow Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 3N9.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|March 10, 2001
Summary
Orbital venous-lymphatic malformations can mimic cavernous hemangiomas in adults. Differentiating these orbital tumors using MRI and identifying calcifications is crucial for safer surgical dissection.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Malformations
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Orbital venous-lymphatic malformations (OVLMs) are rare congenital vascular anomalies.
- Adult-onset OVLMs can present insidiously, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- Five adult patients with OVLMs presented with proptosis, mimicking cavernous hemangiomas.
- CT showed homogeneous masses; MRI revealed heterogeneity and calcification in some cases.
Findings:
- Preoperative and intraoperative diagnoses were cavernous hemangioma in all cases.
- Histopathology confirmed OVLMs, distinct from cavernous hemangiomas.
- OVLM dissection carried higher complication risks, including central retinal artery occlusion.
Implications:
- Distinguishing OVLMs from cavernous hemangiomas is vital for surgical planning.
- MRI's ability to detect heterogeneity and calcification aids in differentiating these orbital lesions.
- Early and accurate diagnosis prevents surgical complications associated with OVLMs.