Freiburg neuropathology case conference: a contrast-enhancing orbital, intra-conal lesion

a 61-year-old woman developed progressive exophthalmos of the left ocular bulb over a period of several weeks. she complained of conjunctival irritation, increased lacrimation, and associated gait disturbance. Ophthalmologic examination showed no visual field deficit and a visus of 0.8 versus 1.0 on her right eye. These findings remained stable at follow-up 4 weeks later. at clinical examination no neurological deficit was observed. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a left-sided orbital, intra-conal lesion. Lateral orbital decompression (according to Kronlein) was performed with resection of the lateral orbital wall and the orbital roof. Opening the periorbita, the capsulated tumour was situated in the intra-conal fat tissue. The tumour capsule was mostly of a white colour with some vascular injections and also adherent veins. after coagulation and opening of the capsule, the tumour was of a tough and adherent consistence, appearing white-greyish. intra-capsular tumour reduction without manipulation of the optic nerve could be achieved. The post-operative course was uneventful without visual impairment. Mild ptosis and diplopia resolved completely within several days. Imaging