10 Causes of Swollen Eyelids
Cause #8: Periorbital Cellulitis
Infections that involve the skin around the eyes are known as periorbital cellulitis. This condition predominantly affects children, but not exclusively. When associated with local trauma (i.e. insect bite), it is mostly caused by bacteria such as Staphyloccocus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. However, periorbital cellulitis can also be secondary to sinusitis or an infection in the adjacent structures of the eye (i.e. hordeolum, impetigo, conjunctivitis). Moreover, periorbital cellulitis can present with fever and unilateral swelling and redness of the lid. In addition, a sensation of warmth and pain (tenderness) in the area can also be present.
With appropriate follow-up, periorbital cellulitis can be treated in adults with oral antibiotics. However, in most children with this condition intravenous antibiotic treatment in the hospital is warranted, especially during the first days of the infection. Complications of periorbital cellulitis can be quite serious. If not treated promptly, this condition can progress to orbital cellulitis (infection of the soft tissues of the eye’s orbit), which can cause further complications (i.e. abscesses and vision loss).
Advertisement
