Primary orbital lymphoma: staging by computed tomographic scanning

Primary orbital lymphoma is a rare form of extranodal lymphoma and accounts for only 1% of all orbital tumours (Calle et al, 1975). Recently reported series have dealt principally with the clinical and radiotherapeutic aspects of the disease, including risk factors for the development of systemic lymphoma (Knowles & Jakobiec, 1980; Fitzpatrick & Macko, 1984; Barthold et al, 1986; Gordon et al, 1986). Published data on the results of staging investigations have included little information on computed tomographic (CT) scanning (Henk, 1982; Bessell et al, 1989). Most patients undergo extensive investigation including a full blood count and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), liver function tests, bone marrow examination, chest radiography and, in recent years, abdominal and thoracic CT. We have retrospectively studied a group of patients with primary orbital lymphoma, with particular reference to their staging investigations and to the factors affecting the development of systemic disease. All patients wit...