Systemic corticosteroids for orbital complications of pediatric rhinosinusitis: A systematic review

Subperiosteal Abscess of the Orbit: Long-term Trends in Bacteriology and Clinical Outcomes and Current Management Recommendations

PURPOSE

To evaluate the impact over time of evolving upper respiratory pathogens, modified microbial terminology, and improved laboratory isolation on the bacteriology and management of sinusitis-related subperiosteal abscess of the orbit.

METHODS

Comparative case series of pediatric patients with bacterial sinusitis-related subperiosteal abscess from 2012 to 2022. Outcomes, culture results, age-specific findings, and antibiotic duration were compared with those in 1977 to 1992, 1988 to 1998, 1999 to 2008, and 2002 to 2012 cohorts at the same institution.

RESULTS

Ninety-one patients met the inclusion criteria. Forty-nine patients (53.8 %) recovered with medical therapy alone; 42 (46.2 %) underwent surgical drainage. There was increased representation in surgical cases of Streptococcus anginosus group (52.4%) and anaerobes (26.2%). Anaerobes were isolated from 2 patients <9 years of age, the youngest age 5; recovery in prior series was limited to patients ≥9 years old. Among 61 of 91 patients <9 years old, 41 (67.2%) were managed medically and 20 (32.8%) underwent surgery. Comparable proportions were 67.5%/32.5%, 85%/15%, and 72%/28% in prior cohorts. Among nonsurgical patients <9 years old, the mean duration of intravenous antibiotics was 4.02 ± 1.2 days. Four patients had multiple admissions. In cases positive for aggressive pathogens, initial findings prompted timely drainage. All patients had favorable visual and systemic outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study extends to 45 years a unique analysis of the bacteriology and clinical course of subperiosteal abscess at a single center with comparatively stable patient demographics and environmental factors, using a relatively uniform treatment algorithm. Despite the increased representation of S. anginosus group and anaerobes, a multifactor protocol with minor modifications remains an effective strategy.

High risk and low prevalence diseases: Orbital cellulitis

INTRODUCTION

Orbital cellulitis is an uncommon but serious condition that carries with it a potential for significant morbidity.

OBJECTIVE

This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of orbital cellulitis, including presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department (ED) based on current evidence.

DISCUSSION

Orbital cellulitis refers to infection of the globe and surrounding soft tissues posterior to the orbital septum. Orbital cellulitis is typically caused by local spread from sinusitis but can also be caused by local trauma or dental infection. It is more common in pediatric patients compared to adults. Emergency clinicians should first assess for and manage other critical, sight-threatening complications such as orbital compartment syndrome (OCS). Following this assessment, a focused eye examination is necessary. Though orbital cellulitis is primarily a clinical diagnosis, computed tomography (CT) of the brain and orbits with and without contrast is critical for evaluation of complications such as abscess or intracranial extension. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and orbits with and without contrast should be performed in cases of suspected orbital cellulitis in which CT is non-diagnostic. While point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) may be useful in differentiating preseptal from orbital cellulitis, it cannot exclude intracranial extension of infection. Management includes early administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics and ophthalmology consultation. The use of steroids is controversial. In cases of intracranial extension of infection (e.g., cavernous sinus thrombosis, abscess, or meningitis), neurosurgery should be consulted.

CONCLUSION

An understanding of orbital cellulitis can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this sight-threatening infectious process.