Disease spectrum in children presenting with Proptosis

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to provide the reader an overview of the subject of childhood proptosis with an emphasis on the systematic and practical approach for the work-up of proptosis in children. All children with proptosis who presented to the department of Paediatric Ophthalmology of The Children's Hospital and Institute of Child Health Lahore were included in the study from January 2004 to December 2005. A total of 64 patients were evaluated. There were 40 males and 24 females. Tumors were the most common [42.18%] cause of proptosis. Out of these vascular tumors, retinoblastoma and optic nerve gliomas were on the top of the list, followed by inflammatory diseases [28.15%]. Detailed history and clinical examination remain the useful tool to reach the correct diagnosis. Radio imaging plays an important role in coming to a diagnosis. Tumors form the most common cause of proptosis in our study followed by inflammatory lesions. A systematic and multidisciplinary approach is mandatory in managing a child presenting from proptosis