Retrobulbar Lymphangioma: A Rare Case Report.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pathology
• Pediatric Oncology

Background:

• Orbital masses can present with varied clinical signs and symptoms.
• Distinguishing between vascular tumors like hemangiomas and lymphatic malformations can be challenging based on imaging alone.

Observation:

• A 14-year-old female presented with a 2-month history of left eye swelling.
• Initial radiological imaging was interpreted as a cavernous hemangioma of the orbit.

Findings:

• Surgical excision of the orbital mass was performed.
• Histopathological examination of the surgical specimen definitively diagnosed a retrobulbar lymphangioma.
• This confirmed a discrepancy between initial radiological diagnosis and definitive pathological findings.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of histopathological confirmation for orbital lesions, even when imaging suggests a specific diagnosis.
• Accurate diagnosis of orbital lymphangioma is crucial for appropriate management and to prevent potential complications.
• Further research into advanced imaging techniques or biomarkers may aid in differentiating orbital vascular and lymphatic malformations preoperatively.