MR imaging and CT of orbital infections and complications in acute rhinosinusitis

The acute onset of orbital and periorbital inflammation presents the clinic ian with a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma, the consequence of which may be very serious. The progression from the initial stage of cellulitis to o rbital abscess, cavernous sinus thrombosis, brain abscess, meningitis, or v isual loss may be quite rapid at times. CT, ultrasonography, and MR imaging play an important role in clinical management of these patients. Indeed, i t is the information obtained through orbital imaging that directs the clin ician to use the correct therapeutic modality.