Orbital Tumours: A Complete Guide for Patients and Families

The eye is one of the body’s most sensitive and important organs. The orbit is a bony cavity that houses the eye along with muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues responsible for vision and eye movement.

Any abnormal growth occurring in this area is known as an orbital tumour. Although the word tumour can sound frightening, it is important to understand that many orbital tumours are benign (non-cancerous) and can be treated successfully, especially when detected early.

This page provides a clear, patient-friendly explanation of everything patients and their families need to know about orbital tumours.

Orbital Tumours: What Are They?

An orbital tumour is an abnormal mass that develops inside or around the eye socket (orbit). These tumours may arise from:

• Eye muscles

• Optic nerve

• Fat tissue

• Blood vessels

• Lacrimal (tear) gland

• Surrounding connective tissue or bone

Depending on the type, orbital tumours may grow slowly or rapidly and can affect both adults and children.

Do All Orbital Tumours Have Cancer?

No. Orbital tumours are broadly classified into two categories:

Benign (Non-Cancerous) Tumours

• Usually slow-growing

• Do not spread to other parts of the body

• May still cause symptoms by pressing on the eye or optic nerve

Common examples include:

• Cavernous haemangioma

• Dermoid cyst

• Meningioma

Malignant (Cancerous) Tumours

• Can grow rapidly

• May invade surrounding tissues

• Require prompt medical attention

Examples include:

• Lymphoma

• Rhabdomyosarcoma (more common in children)

• Metastatic tumours spreading from other organs

Common Symptoms of Orbital Tumours

Symptoms depend on the tumour’s size, location, and growth rate. Common signs include:

• Bulging of the eye (proptosis)

• Double vision

• Blurred or reduced vision

• Eye pain or pressure

• Restricted eye movement

• Drooping eyelid

• Redness or swelling around the eye

• Facial pain or headaches

Note: Any persistent change in eye appearance or vision should be evaluated by a doctor promptly.

What Causes Orbital Tumours?

In many cases, the exact cause is unknown. Possible contributing factors include:

• Congenital (present from birth) conditions

• Abnormal tissue development

• Inflammatory diseases

• Cancer spread from another part of the body

• Rare genetic factors

Wearing glasses, mobile phone use, or eye strain do not cause orbital tumours.

How Are Orbital Tumours Diagnosed?

Accurate diagnosis requires a combination of clinical examination and imaging tests.

Clinical Evaluation

• Detailed eye and neurological examination

• Vision testing

• Eye movement assessment

• Fundus (retina) examination

Imaging Tests

• MRI scan: Best for evaluating soft tissue and nerve involvement

• CT scan: Useful for detecting bone changes or calcification

Biopsy (If Required)

• A small tissue sample may be taken to confirm the tumour type

Treatment Options for Orbital Tumours

Treatment depends on several factors, including:

• Tumour type (benign or malignant)

• Size and location

• Patient’s age and symptoms

• Effect on vision and nearby brain structures

Observation

• Small, slow-growing benign tumours may only require regular monitoring

Surgery

• Partial or complete tumour removal

• Aims to preserve vision and eye movement

• Performed using advanced microsurgical techniques

Radiation Therapy

• Used when surgery is unsafe or incomplete

• Commonly used for lymphomas or residual tumours

Chemotherapy

• Mainly for malignant tumours, especially in children

Best outcomes are achieved through a multidisciplinary approach involving ophthalmologists, neurosurgeons, radiologists, and oncologists.

Is Orbital Tumour Surgery Safe?

Orbital tumour surgery is generally safe when performed with modern surgical techniques and imaging guidance. Risks depend on the tumour’s size and location and may include:

• Temporary or permanent vision changes

• Eye movement difficulties

• Bleeding or infection

Your surgeon will carefully explain the benefits and risks before treatment.

Recovery After Treatment

• Hospital stay usually lasts 2–7 days

• Vision often improves gradually over several weeks

• Regular follow-up visits and imaging are essential

• Most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks

When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention immediately if you notice:

• Sudden bulging of the eye

• Rapid vision loss

• Persistent eye pain

• Swelling that does not improve with treatment

Early diagnosis can prevent complications and help preserve vision.

Conclusion

Although orbital tumours can be alarming, most cases have excellent outcomes with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Advances in neurosurgery and ophthalmology have made treatment safer and more effective than ever before.

If you or a loved one experiences unusual eye symptoms, do not delay medical consultation. Prompt care can protect vision and quality of life.