Differential diagnosis of lateral orbital masses

Computed tomography is ideal for demonstrating orbital masses. It provides information regarding lesion location and involvement of intraorbital structures. It therefore can be used in both staging and follow-up of orbital lesions. Mass location, attenuation characteristics, form, and presence or absence of contrast enhancement all may aid the radiologist in the differential diagnosis of orbital lesions by CT. However, this review of lateral orbital masses illustrates that the differential diagnosis can be quite varied. Careful correlation with history and clinical findings may lead one to the proper diagnosis; however, often the exact nature of a lateral orbital mass must await histologic confirmation.