Orbital tumors in children

Unilateral proptosis in a young child can often be the presenting sign of an orbital mass. Appropriate management of these lesions requires a thorough knowledge of the types of orbital tumors which may present in the pediatric age group, as well as knowing the most appropriate work-up necessary to obtain an accurate diagnosis. This paper will describe a case of a 13-year-old African-American female who presented with uniocular proptosis, blackouts of her vision, dull aching pains in certain positions of gaze, resistance to retropulsion, and mild disc edema. An orbital mass was confirmed following a work-up which included an ultrasound of the orbit and a CT scan. The differential diagnoses included an orbital hemangioma or schwannoma. A diagnosis of a schwannoma involving the orbit was made following surgical removal of the lesion. A review of common orbital tumors seen in children will be presented in addition to the appropriate work-up and management of these lesions.