Periorbital cellulitis

Preseptal cellulitis

Periorbital cellulitis commonly affects children under 18 months old, though it can occur at any age.

This infection can occur after a scratch, injury, or bug bite around the eye, which allows germs to enter the wound. It can also extend from a nearby site that is infected, such as the sinuses.

Symptoms include:

• Redness around the eye or in the white part of the eye
• Swelling of the eyelid, whites of eyes, and surrounding area

This condition does not often affect vision or cause eye pain.

The health care provider will examine the eye and ask about the symptoms.

Tests that may be ordered include:

• Blood culture
• Blood tests (complete blood count)
• CT scan
• MRI scan

Antibiotics are given by mouth, by shots, or through a vein (intravenously; IV) to help fight the infection.

Periorbital cellulitis almost always improves with treatment. In rare cases, the infection spreads into the eye socket, the tissues that surround the eye, and the eyeball itself. This infection is called orbital cellulitis.

Call your provider right away if:

• The eye becomes red or swollen
• Symptoms get worse after treatment
• Fever develops along with eye symptoms
• It is difficult or painful to move the eye
• The eye looks like it is sticking (bulging) out
• There are vision changes