Periphlebitis of the Superior Ophthalmic Vein

Isolated orbital periphlebitis in the context of nonspecific orbital inflammation is rare. This case series describes 3 patients with periphlebitis of the superior ophthalmic vein, 2 of which were confirmed with pathology. All 3 cases had a history of Graves hyperthyroidism. Superior ophthalmic vein periphlebitis is a rare form of orbital inflammation presenting with proptosis and motility restriction yet few inflammatory signs. It may be associated with autoimmune hyperthyroidism and represent a rare feature of thyroid eye disease, or perhaps could be an overlap syndrome between thyroid eye disease and nonspecific orbital inflammation. Treatment response is variable and may require a prolonged course of steroids or other immunosuppressive medications.