Ophthalmology · UKMLA & AKT
Periorbital cellulitis (preseptal cellulitis)
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test. Below are the key points to recognise periorbital cellulitis (preseptal cellulitis) — the full SA Note notes add investigations, management, complications and 10 practice questions.
Key high-yield points
- Periorbital (preseptal) cellulitis = infection anterior to the orbital septum; the globe, extraocular muscles, and optic nerve are unaffected. The exam tests distinguishing this from orbital cellulitis.
Proptosis + restricted/painful eye movements + reduced visual acuity = orbital cellulitis until proven otherwise. This is a sight- and life-threatening emergency requiring urgent IV antibiotics and ophthalmology review.
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