QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
MRI can provide detailed imaging of soft tissues but is not the initial choice in cases of suspected orbital cellulitis.
10028168
c
MRI brain
QuestionChoice
Blood cultures are important for identifying the causative pathogen in systemic infections and would be obtained before starting antibiotic therapy when starting treatment.
10028167
b
Blood culture
QuestionChoice
These symptoms are suggestive of orbital cellulitis - an infection involving the tissues behind the orbital septum. It is important to differentiate orbital cellulitis from periorbital cellulitis because the latter requires emergency admission under ophthalmology and can lead to loss of sight. A CT with contrast can help to identify the extent of the infection and assess for the presence of abscesses or other complications.
10028166
a
CT sinus and orbits with contrast
QuestionChoice
A slit lamp examination is a specialised examination which assesses the anterior segment of the eye, including the cornea, anterior chamber, iris and lens. However, orbital cellulitis primarily involves tissues within the orbit located behind the orbital septum.
10028170
e
Slit lamp examination
QuestionChoice
Visual field testing is used to assess a patient's field of vision. It may be considered later to assess the impact of the orbital cellulitis on the patient's vision, but it is not the first-line investigation in this case.
10028169
d
Visual field testing
Concept
Chapter
2693
6039
Orbital and preseptal cellulitis
Topic
140
Ophthalmology
18031
A 39-year-old man presents with a sore, painful eye. He also reports that he has been feeling feverish and has had changes in his vision.

On examination, you note swelling and erythema around his right eye. The pain in his eye is worse upon movement.

Given his symptoms, what is the most appropriate initial investigation to confirm the diagnosis?
a