Clinical Report: Undetected Intraorbital Foreign Body from Tree Branch Injury
Overview
This report details a case of a 60-year-old male with a large intraorbital foreign body misdiagnosed as orbital cellulitis. Following treatment, MRI confirmed the diagnosis, leading to surgical intervention.
Background
Intraorbital foreign bodies, particularly vegetative types like tree branches, pose significant diagnostic challenges due to their similar density to orbital soft tissue. Misdiagnosis can lead to complications, including infections and vision loss.
Data Highlights
No numerical data available.
Key Findings
A 60-year-old male presented with ocular swelling and pain after a tree branch injury.
Initial diagnosis included orbital cellulitis and conjunctival contusion, with no improvement after treatment.
Orbital MRI revealed a 2 cm branch foreign body and surrounding infectious foci.
Emergency surgery successfully removed the foreign body, leading to improved visual acuity.
At follow-up, diplopia resolved and full extraocular motility was restored.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians should maintain a high suspicion for intraorbital foreign bodies in cases of ocular trauma from vegetative sources.
Conclusion
This case highlights the potential for misdiagnosis in ocular trauma involving vegetative foreign bodies.
