orbitopati

Orbitopathy refers to a group of conditions affecting the orbit, the bony cavity that houses the eye and its surrounding structures. These conditions can arise from various causes, including inflammation, infection, trauma, or the development of tumors. One of the most common types of orbitopathy is thyroid eye disease, also known as Graves' ophthalmopathy, which is an autoimmune condition often associated with an overactive thyroid gland. In thyroid eye disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues within the orbit, leading to inflammation, swelling, and enlargement of the muscles and fat surrounding the eye. This can result in symptoms such as bulging eyes (proptosis), double vision, pain, and a feeling of pressure. Other causes of orbitopathy include orbital cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the tissues around the eye, which can cause rapid onset of pain, redness, swelling, and fever. Orbital pseudotumor, a non-specific inflammatory condition, can also mimic a tumor and cause similar symptoms. Trauma to the orbit, such as from a blow to the face, can lead to fractures, bleeding, and displacement of orbital tissues, impacting vision and eye movement. Orbital tumors, whether benign or malignant, can also cause orbitopathy by compressing or invading surrounding structures. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough eye examination, imaging studies like CT or MRI scans, and sometimes a biopsy. Treatment strategies vary widely depending on the underlying cause and can include medications, radiation therapy, or surgery to address the specific pathology and alleviate symptoms.