Ophthalmologic Evaluation in Orbital and Lacrimal Disease

Abstract The orbit and lacrimal system are bounded by the paranasal sinuses, eyelids, temporal region, and intracranial fossa. The orbit contains all of the supporting structures of the eye and produces unique signs and symptoms depending on the location and pathology of the underlying disease. Careful evaluation of these structures and their function allows for localization and identification of many processes, and represents a key step in determining the next steps of the workup. Processes that affect the orbit and lacrimal system include vascular, inflammatory, cystic, neural, muscular, lymphoid, fibrous, and osseous diseases. In addition, infections or diseases can extend from periorbital regions or metastasize to the orbit.