Pathophysiology of Orbital Cellulitis

Pathophysiology of Orbital Cellulitis

Orbital cellulitis results from microbial infection with subsequent inflammation of the post-septal aspect of the eyelids. The most common routes of infection are from adjacent sinuses or teeth, and direct inoculation through penetrating lid injury. Common organisms include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae in children. There is significant potential morbidity and even mortality as a post-septal lid infection can spread through a valveless venous system leading to cavernous sinus thrombosis, meningitis, intracranial infection, and septicemia.