[Progressive enophthalmos in association with an orbital varix].

BACKGROUND

The orbital varix is a rare congenital disorder. Men and women are equally affected. The disease becomes usually apparent during the third decade of life.

METHODS

A 66-year old women presented with a history of progressive enophthalmos for the last 45 years and complained of intermittent headache and visual deterioration in the left eye.

RESULTS

Visual acuity was markedly reduced in the left eye and optic atrophy was present. The enophthalmos was less apparent after bending forward of the upper part of the body. A concentric visual field defect was noted during perimetry, CT revealed severe changes in the orbital walls.

CONCLUSIONS

Enophthalmos in association with an orbital varix is a rare condition and is usually caused by atrophy of the orbital fatty tissue; changes in the orbital walls are less common.