Congenital orbital teratoma.

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of proptosis at birth is unusual and may be associated with a variety of tumours and structural abnormalities. Congenital orbital teratoma is a rare cause of congenital proptosis.

METHODS

A case report is presented of a female infant with gross right proptosis.

RESULTS

Computed tomography demonstrated a characteristic multicystic structure with no intracranial involvement. Histological examination found tissues derived from all three germ cell layers, consistent with a congenita orbital teratoma. The tumour was successfully removed preserving the globe and vision.

CONCLUSIONS

This report is an example of how early surgical intervention may allow preservation of the globe and vision in some patients with congenital orbital teratoma.