Metastatic tumors

Abstract

In general, the incidence of metastasis has been increasing. This is thought to be due to a number of factors, including the aging population, increased detection of subclinical disease with more sophisticated imaging techniques, better control of systemic disease, and longer survival, which in turn increases the probability for development of metastasis. Metastases to the orbit are rare. From an ophthalmologic point of view, the frequency of orbital metastases may be underestimated because many patients with advanced disseminated disease are being managed without prior ophthalmological examination. Practicing clinical ophthalmologists should be familiar with the manifestations of metastatic orbital disease. At the time of consultation, patients may not have been aware of having a primary tumor elsewhere or may deny a previous history of neoplasia. The ophthalmologist should be able to identify symptoms and signs more commonly associated with metastatic orbital disease, recognize the results of imaging studies, know the most frequent primary sites that disseminate to the eye and orbit, and implement appropriate management according with the original tumor and stage of the disease.