Opthalmology

Question 1

What is periorbital cellulitis?

Answer 1

Periorbital cellulitis = an eyelid + skin infection in front of the orbital septum (in front of the eye)

Question 2

How does periorbital cellulitis (AKA preseptal cellulitis) present?

Answer 2

Swollen, red, hot skin around the eyelid and eye

Question 3

What must be differentiation from periorbital cellulitis?

Answer 3

Orbital cellulitis (sight + life-threatening emergency)

CT scan = can differentiate

Question 4

Management of periorbital cellulitis

Answer 4

Systemic antibiotics (oral or IV)

Preorbital cellulitis can develop into orbital cellulitis, so vulnerable patients (e.g., children) or severe cases may require admission for monitoring.

Question 5

What is orbital cellulitis?

Answer 5

Orbital cellulitis = an infection around the the eyeball - involving the tissues behind the orbital septum

Question 6

Presention of orbital cellulitis

Answer 6

Signs:
* Abormal pupil reactions
* Proptosis (bulding forward of eyeball)
* Reduced eye movements

Symptoms:
* Pain with eye movement
* Vision changes

Question 7

Orbital cellulitis management

Answer 7

Emergency admission + IV antibiotics

Surgical drainage if abscess forms