Radiology of Abnormal Globe Contour

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The orbits, housing the eyeballs, are readily visualized using computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head and neck.
• The globe's structure is a prominent feature within the orbit and a key indicator of potential pathological conditions.
• Various disease processes can significantly alter the globe's morphology, necessitating a comprehensive understanding by radiologists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an image-rich review of emergent and non-emergent pathologies affecting the orbital globe.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing altered globe contour as a diagnostic clue.
• To equip radiologists with knowledge of both common and uncommon etiologies of globe morphology changes.

Main Methods:

• Review of imaging findings from computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head and neck.
• Compilation of a diverse range of pathologies affecting the orbital globe.
• Image analysis focusing on alterations in globe contour and morphology.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of how various pathologies manifest as changes in globe morphology on CT and MRI.
• Identification of key imaging features indicative of specific orbital diseases.
• Categorization of pathologies based on urgency (emergent vs. non-emergent).

Conclusions:

• Altered globe contour on routine head and neck CT and MRI is a significant finding.
• Radiologists must be aware of a broad spectrum of pathologies, including rare conditions, that affect globe morphology.
• Accurate interpretation of globe contour changes is essential for diagnosing orbital diseases.