Imaging Services
MRI of the Orbits
Basics: What is an MRI of the Orbits?
MRI of the orbits is obtained for a variety of reasons, and is the most accurate method in evaluating for pathology behind the orbits (retro-orbital), involving the optic nerves, chiasm, and optic tracts. Some of the most common reasons why we look at the orbits include: 1) Visual changes and possible optic nerve involvement in patients suspected of having multiple sclerosis, 2) proptosis of the globe (protrusion) and suspicion of a retro-orbital mass, and 3) patients with glaucoma.
Discussion of images above:
There is an enhancing mass within the posterior aspect of the left orbit measuring 1.8 cm AP x 1.4 cm transverse x 1.5 cm craniocaudal. The mass is stable in size of in the left orbit and is consistent with hemangioma. There is a change in the peripheral signal characteristics suggesting that some scar is being induced along the periphery of the mass, although this change is not very striking. No other significant changes are visible.