Orbital tumors in children: CT and MR imaging features

The purpose of the article is to review the CT and MR imaging features of orbital tumors in children. Tumors in children are usually different than those in adults. Clinical symptoms are usually non-specific. Clinical examination combined with US may be sufficient for diagnosis and follow-up of benign and superficial lesions. CT and/or MRI are needed for deep or malignant lesions. CT is valuable for osseous and/or calcified lesions. MR is advantageous because of its superior spatial resolution and non-ionizing nature. Malignant tumors correspond to about 20% of lesions and include primary tumors (retinoblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma) and metastases. Benign pathology is more frequent (80%) with dermoid cyst corresponding to about 50% of orbital masses.