Orbital hemangioma is a benign orbital tumor characterized by excessive proliferation of vascular endothelial cells. It exhibits rapid growth during the early stages, followed by slowed growth, and may gradually undergo partial or complete regression over time.
Clinical Manifestations
When the tumor is small, ocular symptoms are generally absent. As the tumor enlarges, symptoms such as proptosis, globe displacement, restricted ocular motility, and ptosis may occur. Lesions involving the anterior orbit may present as localized subcutaneous bluish-purple elevations. CT and MRI scans typically reveal a well-defined or diffuse mass with significant and homogenous enhancement after contrast administration. Color Doppler ultrasound often shows a homogenous internal echo with abundant arterial and venous blood flow.
Figure 1 External appearance of a child with anterior orbital hemangioma in the right eye
A localized subcutaneous bluish-purple elevation is visible in the anterior orbital region of the right eye, accompanied by deformity of the medial canthus.
Treatment
Oral propranolol is the first-line treatment option. For patients who are not suitable for propranolol, sclerotherapy or corticosteroid therapy may be used. In cases where these treatments are contraindicated or ineffective and the lesion significantly affects visual function, surgical intervention may be considered.