Fungal Infections of the Orbit
摘要
Fungal infections of the orbit are rare, but serious and possibly life-threatening infections that ophthalmologists can encounter. They are commonly associated with the entry of pathogens via the paranasal sinuses, owing to their close anatomical relation. Depending on the host status and virulence of the pathogen, these infections can either present as invasive or chronic non-invasive forms. As patients with these infections may present with varying clinical signs and symptoms, including vision loss and brain involvement, it is of utmost importance to differentiate them from inflammatory/neoplastic forms and perform appropriate medical intervention. Mucorales and Aspergillus are predominantly involved in orbital infections and have the propensity to cause fulminant, invasive disease. With newer risk factors being established for invasive mould infections, it is important for an interdisciplinary approach requiring the ophthalmologist/otorhinolaryngologist, radiologist, microbiologist and pathologist. This chapter aims to review the current epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and management.