Orbital and cerebral cavernomas: comparison of clinical, neuroimaging, and neuropathological features.

Our results with 15 orbital cavernomas showed that there are important differences in comparison with cerebral cavernomas: in contrast all orbital cavernomas were embedded by a lilac hard and compact capsule. Clinical symptoms were characterized by the growth of the orbital cavernomas. There were no signs of hemorrhage, which is typical for cerebral cavernomas. The latter showed in contrast to orbital cavernomas a degenerated collagenous tissue forming the vessel walls. The capsule of the orbital cavernomas can be proved by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Because of its tendency to lead to irreversible loss of visual acuity, we recommend early surgery after the onset of symptoms.