Periorbital Cellulitis

Definition

Periorbital cellulitis is an infection that is caused by bacteria. The most and main common bacteria that cause periorbital cellulitis in adults are streptococcus and staphylococcus. Periorbital cellulitis is an infection of the tissues surrounding the eye. It can be the result of minor trauma to the area around the eye, or it may be the extension of another site of infection, such as sinusitis. There is generally redness and swelling of the eyelid and the surrounding area, but unlike orbital cellulitis, periorbital cellulitis does not cause protrusion of the eyeball or limit its movements. Periorbital cellulitis is most common in children under six years of age.

Although rarely associated with complications, any infection near the eye and close to the brain is potentially serious. It is important to consult a physician immediately if you think that you or your child may have periorbital cellulitis.

Causes of Periorbital Cellulitis

Periorbital cellulitis is an infection that is caused by bacteria. Prior to the Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine, the most common cause of periorbital cellulitis in children was Haemophilus influenzae type B. Now, there is not one single type of bacterium that is associated with periorbital cellulitis in children.

The most common causes of periorbital cellulitis are :-

• The other organism such as beta-hemolytic streptococci may also cause periorbital cellulitis.
• The main cause of periorbital cellulitis is bacterial infection.
• Trauma to the eyelid may also lead to this disease.
• Generally in young children, the infection is caused by a sinus infection due to a organism called Hemopuilus influenza.

Symptoms of Periorbital Cellulitis

The possible symptoms of periorbital cellulitis includes:-

• Eyelid appears shiny and is red or purple in color.
• If your toddler has periorbital cellulitis, he may have a runny nose or conjunctivitis
• The fever, generally 102° F or greater may occur during periorbital cellulitis.
• Loss of vision may also be a critical affect of this disease.
• The patient may experience painful swelling over upper and lower lids.
• You may have the feeling of general malaise.
• Restricted or painful eye movements.

Treatments of Periorbital Cellulitis

The most effective treatments for periorbital cellulitis are :-

• Paracetamol is useful for pain relief and fever control.
• Other medications may also be recommended, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain, and aspirin to decrease fever.
• The antibiotics such as penicillins, erythromycin, cephalexin, cloxacillin are generally used to stop the spread of infection and prevent damage to the optic nerve.
• Periorbital cellulitis, can be treated by applying heat packs over the affected areas.
• Ophthalmologist perform a surgery by draining eye sockets or sinus cavities when one or both eyes are affected,.