Bilateral Orbital Cellulitis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Orbital cellulitis (OC) is a potentially life-threatening ophthalmic emergency characterized by rapid progression, which may result in severe visual impairment and serious systemic complications if not managed promptly. The condition is typically unilateral, with bilateral involvement being uncommon and generally associated with extension through the cavernous sinus. Bilateral orbital cellulitis secondary to rhino-sinusitis is rare, although such cases have been documented in the literature from various regions. The present case underscores the critical importance of sound clinical judgement, early and accurate diagnosis, and timely therapeutic intervention in the effective management of bilateral orbital cellulitis, in order to prevent adverse visual and systemic outcomes. We present a 7-year-old boy who had catarrh, fever, headache, and right eye swelling, which later progressed to involve the left eye. An Orbital MRI was done, which showed bilateral orbital cellulitis with right intraocular collection extending into the right maxillary and ethmoidal sinuses. Management was both medical and surgical, using a multidisciplinary approach.