Orbital — tuberculosis

Abstract

Three cases of orbital tuberculosis are presented, two as cold abscess in the orbit and one as a chronic indolent sinus. A simple clinical test like Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) can demonstrate some or all of the characteristic pathological features like caseating necrosis, epitheloid cells and Langhan's giant cells. Important corroborative evidence can be obtained from the Tuberculin test and a positive therapeutic trial. While there are many other causes or orbital swelling and abscess, tuberculosis should be considered an important differential diagnosis in endemic areas. Simple tests like the tuberculin reaction and Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology should be considered among the routine diagnostic investigations for orbital swellings.