Presumed orbital sarcoidosis: report of a case followed by computerized axial tomography and conjunctival biopsy

A thirty-two-year old woman with known sarcoidosis was seen in the Ophthalmology Clinic because of discomfort in the left eye and orbit when looking up. A CT scan showed a small mass in the posterior left orbit. Conjunctival biopsy of the left eye showed a granuloma consistent with sarcoid. Rapid resolution of her condition occurred with prednisone therapy. One year later she had a recurrence with inability to elevate or depress the left eye. Similar, but more extensive, changes were seen on a CT scan. Conjunctival biopsy again was positive. With steroid therapy rapid and complete resolution occurred both clinically and as demonstrated by a CT scan. The relationship between her orbital mass and systemic sarcoidosis is discussed.