[Lymphangioma of the orbit]

Three cases of orbito-palpebral lymphangioma are reported. The three cases all have the common features: onset in early childhood, slow progression and extension of the tumor to other structures (palate and temporal fossa). The usual complications (hemorrhage and cellulitis) were documented in our cases. Biopsy of the lesions showed variably sized endothelial lined spaces without a capsule. Theses spaces contain eosinophilic material without blood elements. In two cases, chirurgical excision gave orbital edema. The authors think that orbital lymphangioma is a clinical entity. The treatment is difficult and small repeated excisions and cryotherapy are recommended.