Introduction to eye socket disorders

[Zipporah Schumaker]

The eye sockets (orbits) are bony cavities that contain and protect the eyes and their supporting structures (see figures An Inside Look at the Eye and Structures That Protect the Eye). Disorders affecting the orbits include

Fractures
Cavernous sinus thrombosis
Inflammation
Infections (for example, orbital cellulitis and preseptal cellulitis)
Tumors

Thyroid disease can also affect the orbits.
Many orbital disorders require treatment by a medical doctor who specializes in eye disorders (ophthalmologist).