Orbital dermoids in children

Rakesh Ahuja1, Nathalie F Azar

  • 1Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA 02114, USA. rakesh_ahuja@meei.harvard.edu

Insights

Orbital dermoid cysts are benign congenital tumors common in children. Complete surgical removal is the standard treatment, with a good prognosis despite potential surgical challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Orbital dermoid cysts are congenital choristomas, typically found in pediatric patients.
  • They commonly develop near suture lines, particularly the fronto-zygomatic suture.
  • These cysts are characterized by slow progression and can cause proptosis if deep.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize the characteristics and standard management of orbital dermoid cysts.
  • To highlight potential complications such as inflammatory reactions from rupture.
  • To discuss the surgical approach and prognosis for these orbital tumors.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on orbital dermoid cysts.
  • Analysis of clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, and surgical outcomes.
  • Discussion of management strategies and potential challenges.

Main Results:

  • Complete surgical excision without cyst rupture is the established standard of care.
  • Deep orbital cysts may necessitate advanced imaging and present surgical difficulties.
  • Cyst rupture can induce significant inflammatory responses in orbital tissues.

Conclusions:

  • Orbital dermoid cysts generally have a favorable prognosis with appropriate surgical management.
  • Early diagnosis and complete excision are crucial for optimal outcomes.
  • While rare, the possibility of malignancy mimicking dermoid cysts should be considered.

Related Concept Videos

Cranial Bones: Lateral View01:27

Cranial Bones: Lateral View

The lateral view of the cranium is dominated by temporal, sphenoid, and ethmoid bones.
The temporal bone forms the lower lateral side of the skull. The temporal bone is subdivided into several regions. The flattened upper portion is the squamous portion of the temporal bone. Below this area and projecting anteriorly is the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, which forms the posterior portion of the zygomatic arch. Posteriorly is the mastoid portion of the temporal bone. Projecting...
Accessory Structures of the Eye01:17

Accessory Structures of the Eye

Optical perception, or vision, is an extraordinary sense dependent on converting light signals received via the ocular organs. These organs, known as eyes, are securely positioned within the bony cavities of the skull, called orbits. The orbits serve a dual purpose: a protective shield for the ocular globes and a stable attachment point for the soft ocular tissues. The eye's external protective mechanisms include the eyelids, which are edged with lashes that act as a barrier against foreign...
Cranial Bones: Superior and Posterior View01:14

Cranial Bones: Superior and Posterior View

The superior view of the cranium shows the frontal and paired parietal bones.
The frontal bone is the single bone that forms the forehead. At its anterior midline, between the eyebrows, there is a slight depression called the glabella. The frontal bone also forms the supraorbital margin of the orbit. Near the middle of this margin is the supraorbital foramen, the opening that provides passage for a sensory nerve to the forehead. The frontal bone is thickened just above each supraorbital margin,...
Muscles of the Eye01:20

Muscles of the Eye

The muscles of the eye are sophisticated structures that control eye movement and focus, allowing for the precise and rapid adjustments necessary for vision. The human eye is controlled by ten muscles — six extraocular muscles, three intraocular muscles, and one primary eyelid retractor muscle.
Extraocular Muscles
The six extraocular muscles surround the eyeball and control its movements. They are responsible for a wide range of eye motions, including looking up, down, left, right, and rotating...
Papillary Dermis01:11

Papillary Dermis

Dermis
The dermis might be considered the "core" of the integumentary system, as distinct from the epidermis and hypodermis. It contains blood and lymph vessels, nerves, and other structures, such as hair follicles and sweat glands. The dermis is made of two layers of connective tissue that comprise an interconnected mesh of elastin and collagenous fibers, produced by fibroblasts.
Papillary Layer
The papillary layer is made of loose, areolar connective tissue, which means the collagen and...