Orbital lymphangioma: an analysis of 26 patients

Aim-To evaluate retrospective data on the clinical findings, histological f eatures, radiological diagnosis, and management outcomes in orbital lymphan gioma. Methods-Data on 26 orbital lymphangioma patients managed over 16 years were re-evaluated. The computed tomograph and magnetic resonance scans and hist ological slides were reviewed. Parametric techniques were used to assess co rrelations among clinical, radiological, and histopathological factors. Results-At presentation proptosis was present in 85%, ptosis in 73%, and re strictive eye movements in 46% of patients. The accuracy of the initial rad iology interpretations was 77%. 24 cases required one or more surgeries. Th e mean follow up was 9.2 years (range 1-14 years). 58% of patients develope d recurrences. In cases that recurred, motility restriction was significant ly more frequent at initial examination than cases without recurrence (p<0. 05). After therapy, 75% of patients were satisfied with their visual functi on and cosmetic appearance. Conclusions-Conservative management of orbital lymphangioma with multiple p artial resections may achieve satisfactory results.