Spontaneous Intra-orbital Arteriovenous Fistula: A Rare Cause of Proptosis

Cureus. 2019 Oct 24;11(10):e5984. doi: 10.7759/cureus.5984.

Abstract

A left orbital arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is diagnosed in a patient presenting with proptosis. Intra-orbital AVFs are rare according to the literature search, and therefore, the best treatment modality remains controversial. We present a case of a patient who presented with non-specific symptoms. He was diagnosed with intra-orbital AVF and underwent a trans-arterial embolization. The procedure was complicated by the central retinal artery occlusion, which is one of the most feared complications associated with this procedure. We discuss the modalities in the diagnosis of intra-orbital AVFs as well as stress the importance of an interdisciplinary approach for its timely and efficient management.

Keywords: orbital arteriovenous fistula; proptosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports