Central Retinal Artery Occlusion and Orbital Abscess following Dental Abscess

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Oral cavity or other head and neck inflammation may invade the orbit because paranasal sinuses are close to the orbital wall. The authors report a case of orbital abscess and central retinal artery occlusion followed by orbital invasion of the abscess after tooth extraction. METHODS: A 61-year old woman complained of persistent dental abscess and sudden visual loss for 2 weeks following tooth extraction. We performed a brain MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and an orbit CT (Computed Tomography) that revealed orbital cellulitis and orbital abscess. On fundus exam, cherry-red spot and retinal edema were noticed. RESULTS: Although ocular symptoms were improved with intravenous antibiotic therapy and surgical intervention, there was no recovery of visual acuity. CONCLUSIONS: Visual loss can be associated with delayed treatment in the case of orbital abscess. Therefore early diagnosis and proper treatment of orbital invasion following dental abscess is crucial for the recovery of vision.