Periorbital Cellulitis, or also known as preseptal cellulitis, is the inflammation or infection of the eye area, especially on the eyelids. It can be caused by wounds in the eye area or by an upper respiratory tract infection called sinusitis. Infections from other parts of the body can also lead to periorbital cellulitis as it can rapidly spread through the bloodstreams. Since the eyes are considered a very important part of the body, you should take utmost care in administering treatments in case you are facing the infections caused by cellulitis.
Difference of Periorbital Cellulitis from Orbital Cellulitis
This type of cellulitis is different from orbital cellulitis, which is a much severe case, although it also pertaining to the infection on the eye area. More aggressive medical treatments and even surgery are needed to cure orbital cellulitis while these are not recommended for periorbital since it is a less complicated situation.
People commonly infected by periorbital or preseptal cellulitis are those below the age of ten. Therefore, periorbital cellulitis is usually handled as a pediatric case. Unlike the orbital cellulitis, patients with periorbital cellulitis do not experience any swelling of the eye area, decrease in eye movement, or even the occurrence of pain on the affected area.
Causes and Treatment of Periorbital Cellulitis
Just like any other type of cellulitis, periorbital cellulitis is caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. Putting make up on and failing to wash it off before sleeping can be one of the main causes of periorbital cellulitis. Failing to practice proper eye care may cause the bacteria to build-up especially on the eyelids.
In treating periorbital cellulitis, consulting your doctor is necessary, especially with an ophthalmologist. Antibiotics will be prescribed to the patient depending on the need for anti-bacterial medication. If there is persistent upper respiratory tract infection or sinusitis, there is a need to visit your otorhinolaryngologist so that the proper medication and treatment can be given, as it is a separate infection. Again, there is no need to undergo surgery, however, a vaccine may be used to stabilize and minimize the occurrence of periorbital cellulitis. The vaccine developed for this type of infection is called the Haemophilus influenzae vaccine.
