Pediatric Orbital Cellulitis: A Case Report and Management Challenges

In this case, the challenge associated with the management of the infant child is a reflection of the difficulties encountered in the treatment of patients in the developing countries and the importance of a good clinical judgment, early diagnosis, and prompt intervention in the management of orbital cellulitis. This is a case report of an 1 - year - old male child. He presented with painful progressive protrusion of the left eye and swelling of the lids of 3 days duration. The left eyeball protruded 2 days with no associated history of altered sensorium. A working diagnosis of orbital cellulitis secondary to rhinosinusitis was made. He was placed on parenteral and topical antibiotics until he recovered. Orbital cellulitis occurring in a conscious child is uncommon. Prompt and specific treatment should be started empirically, especially in developing countries where the facilities for investigation may not be available or the patients may be financially handicapped. This is particularly important to prevent the possible loss of vision and severe life - threatening complications. This study will be of interest particularly to the ophthalmologists, the otorhinolaryngologists, and the pediatricians.