Periorbital cellulitis is an infection of the tissues around the eye. It is a serious condition, but one that is easily treated.
The infection will usually only be present in one eye and does not affect the opposite eye. Perorbital cellulitis is contracted when bacteria enter the eyelid through a scratch, a sty on the id, a chalazion, or an insect bite. The bacteria that cause periorbital cellulitis are the staphylococcus or streptococcus bacterial.
A child with periorbital cellulitis will usually complain of pain in the eye and their eyelid will be swollen and red. Minor flu-like symptoms, such as a fever and runny nose can be present as well as conjunctivitis or “pink eye”.
Your child’s doctor will determine the severity of the periorbital cellulitis through blood work, cultures or X-rays. If warranted, your child may be sent to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation.
Your child will more than likely be put on oral antibiotics and may even receive and injection of antibiotics.
Learn more about symptoms of Periorbital Cellulitis.
