Orbital Apex, Optic Canal, and Superior Orbital Fissure
Assess the optic canal, superior orbital fissure, cavernous sinus, and intraconal spread on CT and MRI in orbital apex disease.
RadPhrases Editorial Team2 min de lectura
The orbital apex brings the optic nerve, ophthalmic artery, and several ocular motor nerves into a small space. Whether disease reaches the optic canal, superior orbital fissure, or both affects the neurologic deficit and differential diagnosis. The report should show the route of spread before applying a compartment label.
Thin-section bone CT assesses the optic canal, fissures, and osseous destruction. Fat-suppressed contrast-enhanced MRI evaluates nerves, muscles, orbital fat, cavernous sinus, and intracranial extension. Infection, inflammation, tumor, and vascular disease can produce similar symptoms.
Assessment framework
- Trace the optic nerve from globe to chiasm.