Orbit Tumours
Orbital tumours are growths that develop within the eye socket and may affect vision or eye movement if they press on surrounding structures. While many are benign, careful assessment and specialised treatment may be required to protect eye health.The orbit, or eye socket, is the bony cavity that houses and protects the eye and its surrounding structures. Within this small space are several important components including the optic nerve, muscles that control eye movement, blood vessels and fat that cushions the eye.
Tumours can occasionally develop within the orbit. While many of these are benign (non-cancerous), they may still affect vision or eye function if they grow and place pressure on nearby structures.
What Are Orbital Tumours?
Orbital tumours are abnormal growths that develop within the eye socket. These growths may arise from tissues within the orbit itself – such as nerves, muscles, blood vessels or fat – or may spread from nearby areas including the sinuses or brain.
Many orbital tumours are benign and grow slowly. However, because the orbit contains delicate and tightly packed structures, even benign growths can affect the eye if they press on the optic nerve or alter the position of the eyeball.
Early diagnosis and careful assessment are important to determine the nature of the tumour and whether treatment is required.
Symptoms
In some cases, orbital tumours are discovered incidentally during imaging of the head performed for another reason.
When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Bulging or protrusion of the eye
- Double vision
- Reduced vision
- Pain or discomfort around the eye
- A feeling of fullness or pressure within the orbit
- Changes in eye movement
Any persistent change in vision or eye position should be assessed by an eye specialist.
Next Steps
If an orbital tumour is suspected, specialised imaging is required to determine the size, location and nature of the growth.
Careful evaluation helps guide treatment decisions and ensures that important structures such as the optic nerve are protected.
Assessment & Diagnosis
Assessment typically includes:
- Detailed ophthalmic examination
- Imaging with CT scan or MRI
- Evaluation of eye movement and visual function
- Assessment of surrounding structures such as the sinuses and brain
These investigations allow your specialist to determine whether the tumour is benign or requires further treatment.
Treatments
Treatment for orbital tumours depends on several factors including the type of tumour, its location and whether it is affecting vision or surrounding structures.
Surgical Removal
In many cases, surgery is recommended to remove the tumour while preserving the surrounding structures of the eye.
If the tumour is located behind the eye, part of the bone of the orbital rim may need to be temporarily removed to safely access the growth without placing tension on the optic nerve. The bone is then repositioned and secured at the end of the procedure.
Whenever possible, surgical incisions are placed within the natural crease of the upper eyelid so that any scarring is minimal.
Multidisciplinary Surgery
Because the orbit lies close to the brain and the sinus cavities, some procedures may be performed in collaboration with neurosurgical or ENT specialists to ensure safe and comprehensive treatment.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery will depend on the type and complexity of surgery performed.
Following treatment, patients are monitored to ensure:
- Healing of the surgical site
- Stability of vision
- Normal eye movement
- No recurrence or progression of the tumour
Ongoing follow-up allows careful monitoring of orbital health and visual function.