Sarcoid-like granulomatous orbital inflammation induced by interferon-alpha treatment.

A 56-year-old black woman presented with bilateral orbital swelling in the lacrimal gland region 4 months after initiation of interferon-alpha and ribavirin treatment for occupationally-acquired hepatitis C infection. Histopathologic evaluation of bilateral lacrimal gland biopsy specimens revealed granulomatous inflammation. All other tests were negative for sarcoidosis including angiotensin converting enzyme level and chest x-ray. The use of interferon-alpha as an antiviral and/or chemotherapeutic agent is increasing. Therefore recognition of its possible orbital side effects is important for the oculoplastic surgeon. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case of orbital granulomatous involvement associated with interferon-alpha therapy.