Extraconal Orbital Sarcoidosis: An Unusual Cause of Optic Neuropathy

Background

Sarcoidosis is an idiopathic multisystem granulomatous disease, which affects the lungs in up to 90 % of cases [1]. Ocular involvement occurs in approximately 25 % of patients with systemic sarcoidosis, anterior uveitis being its most frequent manifestation [1]. Orbital sarcoidosis is rare, and can be the initial presentation of an asymptomatic systemic sarcoidosis [1 – 3].

Diagnosis of sarcoidosis rests on several criteria [4]. Diagnosis is ”definite” in the presence of suggestive clinical presentation with positive histology. Diagnosis is ”probable” in the setting of a suggestive clinical presentation, positive laboratory findings, but without histological confirmation. Diagnosis is ”possible” if there is only a suggestive clinical presentation with no other supportive findings.

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