Primary Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Presenting as an Orbital Apex Tumor

Abstract

Primary adenoid cystic carcinoma occurring in the orbital apex is rare. We present the clinical features of a patient who initially presented with the clinical and radiologic features of an orbital pseudotumor. He developed features of orbital apex syndrome and repeat imaging showed a tumor of the orbital apex with intracranial invasion. He underwent radical skull base surgery and pathologic examination revealed adenoid cystic carcinoma in the orbital apex with a normal lacrimal apparatus. He received post operative radiation and the outcome in the light of a review of available literature is being discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Adenoid cystic carcinoma
• orbital apex
• extra lacrimal
• intracranial