Episode 70: Orbital Lymphatic Malformations (aka Lymphangiomas)

This week we delve into orbital lymphatic malformations, also commonly called lymphangiomas. Learn the diagnostic pearls to identifying this potentially dangerous pediatric orbital tumor, and what's so tricky about their management.

Image credit: Radiopaedia.org (link here). Case contributed by Dr. Ammar Haouimi.

Image caption on Radiopaedia.org website:

“Axial T1 C+ fat sat. There is a poorly marginated, multiloculated right orbital cystic mass of intra-and extraconal location surrounding the optic nerve, extending to the upper and lower eyelids as well as the frontal region with bone remodeling. It elicits an intermediate to high signal on T1, high signal on T2 with multiple cystic spaces with fluid-fluid levels well-visualized mainly on T2 sequences (hemorrhagic, lymphatic, or proteinaceous content). The postcontrast sequences show a heterogeneous enhancement mainly the margins of the cystic spaces. A mass effect is noted on orbital structures mainly of the optic nerve and eye globe which shows a proptosis grade III.”