Orbital Myositis and Strabismus: Clinical Profile, Management, and Predictive Factors for Recurrence.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurology
• Immunology

Background:

• Orbital myositis is an idiopathic inflammatory condition affecting extraocular muscles.
• Understanding its clinical presentation, management, and recurrence factors is crucial for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the clinical characteristics of orbital myositis patients.
• To evaluate management strategies and identify predictors of disease recurrence.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 52 patients diagnosed with orbital myositis between 2010 and 2022.
• Analysis of demographics, symptoms, ocular findings, imaging, treatment, and outcomes.
• Statistical analysis to identify risk factors for recurrence.

Main Results:

• The study included 52 patients (69% female, mean age 36) presenting with eye pain and diplopia.
• The medial rectus muscle was most commonly affected, leading to limited abduction in 73% of cases.
• Recurrence was observed in 43% of patients, with abrupt steroid cessation identified as a significant risk factor (P = .046).

Conclusions:

• Systemic steroids with a gradual dose reduction demonstrate favorable outcomes in managing orbital myositis.
• Biopsy and steroid-sparing agents are recommended for refractory cases.
• Surgical intervention can address residual deficits after disease remission to improve functional outcomes.