Concomitant Idiopathic Orbital Inflammatory Pseudotumor and Thyroid-Associated Ophthalmopathy

Coexistence of idiopathic orbital inflammatory pseudotumor (IOIP) and thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) is extremely rare. The purpose of this article is to analyze the clinical features, image findings, and therapeutic outcomes of concomitant IOIP and TAO in China.

Detailed clinical records of 3 Chinese patients with concomitant IOIP and TAO were reviewed, including their clinical history, symptoms and signs, ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), and steroid therapy.

Among the 3 patients, were 2 men and 1 woman, aged 42, 49, and 48 years, respectively. The right orbit was involved in 1 patient and both orbits in 2 patients. In addition to showing the typical features of TAO, such as hyperthyroidism, upper eyelid retraction, and enlarged extraocular muscles with tendon sparing, all 3 patients showed ambiguous soft tissue masses in one or both orbits. Pathologic examination after biopsy of the mass in 1 patient confirmed the diagnosis of lymphatic IOIP. All the patients responded extremely well to steroid treatment.

Although rare, a simultaneous coexistence of IOIP and TAO can occur. Therefore, it is important for clinicians to be aware of the potential for concomitant IOIP and TAO.