Orbital space-occupying lesions in Denmark 1974-1997

Purpose: To determine the frequency, distribution according to diagnosis an d the recurrence frequency of orbital space-occupying lesions in Denmark, t o determine sex and age of the patients and to establish a national orbital data register. Methods: All biopsied/surgically removed orbital lesions collected by Danis h pathological departments during the period 1974-1997 were identified by S NOMED codes. In addition, in each case gender and age of the patients and n umber of recurrences were registered. Results: 965 orbital lesions from 841 patients were identified during the 2 4-year period. The incidence of orbital lesions increased significantly ove r the study period and at present about 80 cases/year are registered, The r atio benign/malignant lesion per year remained constant during the observat ion period. Lesions in children constituted a total of 152 (16%), the perce ntage of lesions in children being constant during the period. Malignant tu mors comprised a total of 364 (45%) in adults and 34 (22%) in children, Mal ignant tumors were in adults distributed with 43% primary, 48% secondary in vading and 9% metastatic tumors, and in children with 65% primary, 29% seco ndary invading and 6% metastatic tumors. Normal tissue was only found in 6% of the cases recorded. Conclusion: A registration of all histologically evaluated orbital space-oc cupying lesions in Denmark during a period of 24 years was performed and a national orbital database established. Orbital lesions are rare and primari ly benign.