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J Neurol Surg B Skull Base 2016; 77(02): 131-139
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1582239
Review Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Perineural Spread of Head and Neck Cancer: Ophthalmic Considerations

Thomas Benton Ableman
1   Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States
,
Steven A. Newman
1   Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
26 April 2016 (online)

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Abstract

Head and neck malignancies with orbital involvement present difficult decisions to the treating physician. When the spread is perineural, the challenges are greater due to the incipient nature of the spread and the fact that the orbit can also be involved by centrifugal spread from the non-ophthalmic branches of the trigeminal nerve. The disease is often misdiagnosed and the subsequent delay in treatment results in worse outcomes. This article discusses the evaluation of the eye and the many facets of orbital involvement by perineural spread of malignancy including the treatment of complications.

Keywords

perineural spread - adenoid cystic carcinoma - squamous cell carcinoma - head and neck malignancy - neurotrophic keratitis
 

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