Management of preseptal and orbital cellulitis for the primary care physician

Preseptal cellulitis and postseptal (orbital) cellulitis represent a spectrum of orbital infections which a primary care provider and ophthalmologist may see during practice. Most often these conditions occur through spread from the sinuses, though there are a variety of other inciting factors. These conditions can both present with erythema and edema, but a complete and thorough exam can help a practitioner differentiate the two. Patients should be treated with targeting the most common pathogens and followed very closely by their providers. This article will discuss the anatomy, pathogenesis, risk factors, diagnosis, management and prognosis of preseptal and orbital cellulitis.