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Orbital teratoma masquerading as lymphangioma
Ennio Polito1, Patrizia Pichierri, Fausto Trivella
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Siena, Italy.
Summary
Orbital teratomas in newborns cause proptosis and potential vision loss. Early surgical removal is crucial for preserving sight, as demonstrated in a case mimicking a lymphangioma.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Oncology
Background:
- Orbital teratomas are rare congenital tumors.
- Rapidly growing orbital teratomas can cause proptosis, eyelid abnormalities, and corneal exposure.
- Untreated proptosis can lead to irreversible vision loss.
Observation:
- A 6-month-old girl presented with unilateral proptosis.
- The orbital mass was initially suspected to be a lymphangioma.
- The lesion caused poor eyelid closure, increasing the risk of corneal complications.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination confirmed the mass as an orbital teratoma.
- The teratoma was completely excised using a transconjunctival surgical approach.
- The patient achieved favorable cosmetic and functional outcomes post-surgery.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and surgical intervention for orbital teratomas.
- The transconjunctival approach offers a viable option for complete tumor excision with minimal scarring.
- Prompt management of orbital teratomas is essential to prevent vision impairment in infants.