[Progressive enophthalmos in association with an orbital varix]

Abstract

Background: The orbital varix is a rare congenital disorder. Men and women are equally affected. The disease becomes usually apparent during the third decade of life.

Patient: A 66-year old women presented with a history of progressive enophthalmos for the last 45 years and complained of intermittent headache and visual deterioration in the left eye.

Results: Visual acuity was markedly reduced in the left eye and optic atrophy was present. The enophthalmos was less apparent after bending forward of the upper part of the body. A concentric visual field defect was noted during perimetry, CT revealed severe changes in the orbital walls.

Conclusion: Enophthalmos in association with an orbital varix is a rare condition and is usually caused by atrophy of the orbital fatty tissue; changes in the orbital walls are less common.