Nonmalignant Tumors of the Orbit

Most orbital tumors are nonmalignant. Nonmalignant orbital tumors can arise from any of the structures within the orbit, including blood vessels, fat, nerves, lacrimal gland, and connective tissue. Nonmalignant orbital tumors can be grouped into cystic lesions, vascular tumors, lymphoproliferative lesions, inflammatory lesions, mesenchymal tumors, neurogenic tumors, and lacrimal gland tumors. Although most orbital tumors are benign, their location may compromise ocular health and function and necessitate treatment with surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Patient characteristics, signs, and findings on ophthalmic examination and imaging, including computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, guide the clinician in formulating a differential diagnosis.