A Case of Spontaneous Orbital Emphysema

Jeon, Eun ju; Choi, Young Chul; Park, Yong Soo

Case Report

Journal of Rhinology 1999;6(2):160-163.
Published online November 30, 1999.

A Case of Spontaneous Orbital Emphysema

Eun ju Jeon, Young Chul Choi, Yong Soo Park

Department of Otolaryngology-HNS, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea. ent39825@unitel.co.kr

Abstract

Orbital emphysema is a recognized complication of various kinds of orbital and facial injury. It is usually benign and transient but can potentially elicit serious visual complications. Its significance as a threat to sight and its diagnostic value have been underestimated in the field of otolaryngology. Recently, we experienced an unusual case of orbital emphysema following nose blowing. A reliable past history and physical examination showed no direct trauma to the orbit. We report this case with a review of its pathophysiology, diagnosis and adequate management through the literature.

Key Words: Orbital emphysema