Simultaneous isolated bilateral superior orbital vein thrombosis as a presenting feature of antiphospholipid syndrome.

PURPOSE

To report a rare case of isolated bilateral simultaneous superior ophthalmic vein occlusions secondary to antiphospholipid syndrome.

CASE REPORT

We report the case of a 77-year-old female who presented with a one week history of right relative proptosis, conjunctival injection and optic disc swelling. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed bilateral orbital masses which were diagnosed as superior ophthalmic vein occlusion. The patient was anticoagulated and the lesions resolved completely. System cardiovascular and haematological work-up revealed the patient was suffering from anti-phospholipid syndrome.

CONCLUSION

Although superior ophthalmic vein occlusion is rare, it is an important differential as orbital biopsy is to be avoided. This is only the second reported case secondary to antiphospholipid syndrome and the first such case with bilateral occlusions.