Exophthalmus

Synonyms: Proptosis, Protrusio bulbi

1 Definition

Exophthalmus is diagnosed if the eyes' bulbi are prominent beyond the orbits accompanied by widened palpebral fissures.

Exophthalmus is a symptom requiring clarification of its cause. It is not a disease pattern of its own.

2 Causes

• Inflammatory orbital diseases (e.g. orbital phlegmon, sinus-cavernosus thrombosis or orbital pseudotumour)
• Abnormality of orbital vessels (vibrant exophthalmus, orbital hematoma)
• orbital tumours
• endocrine opthalmopathy, see LEMO Classification and NOSPECS scheme.