An orbital tumor is a type of tumor that is located in the orbit. The orbit is a bony socket that is located in the part of the skull that contains the eye. It is also known as the eye socket. An orbital tumor can be classified as malignant or benign. Large tumors can result in vision problems. The tumor can also spread to other parts of the body, or metastasize.
There are several symptoms you may notice if you have an orbital tumor. Some of those symptoms include eyeball bulging forward, pain in the eye, droopy or swollen eyelid and vision changes. However, it is important to note that those symptoms can be an indication of another condition. That is why it is important to see an eye doctor and reconstructive surgeon if you are having any strange symptoms.
There are a variety of treatment options for orbital tumors. The treatment that the doctor recommends is contingent upon individual circumstances. Below are some of those options:
Surgery Options
The surgeon may elect to surgically remove the tumor. However, the orbit is delicate. Surgeons have to be very careful when operating on the orbit.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves using cancer-fighting drugs in order to destroy the tumor. The drugs can be administered via IV drip or in the form of a pill. New advances in Interventional Neuroradiology have made it possible to deliver the drugs right to the tumor site. The drug is not administered into the bloodstream, but it is administered through a catheter and administered directly to the tumor. This helps eliminate the possibility of whole body toxicity, which is commonly associated with chemotherapy.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery
This is a non-invasive procedure that involves using focused beams of radiation in order to destroy the tumor.
Treating orbital tumors can be quite challenging. Even if the tumor is small, it can still cause vision problems. It can also negatively impact facial appearance. That is why they have to be treated by a doctor who has had experience with orbital tumors.
If you are looking for a doctor who can treat orbital tumors, then contact the offices of Robert M. Schwarcz, MD, FACS to learn more.
