Imaging of Pediatric Ocular Globe Pathologies

The spectrum of ocular diseases encountered in the pediatric population is different from that in adults. Recognition of the normal embryologic development and anatomy is crucial to understand various ocular pathologies. Cross-sectional imaging supplements the clinical evaluation in establishing an accurate diagnosis, guiding management and monitoring diseases of the ocular globe. CT is mostly reserved for evaluation of acute processes in the setting of trauma or infection. MR imaging is the technique of choice for most other ocular conditions, given its high soft-tissue resolution. This article highlights the relevant embryologic developmental stages and normal anatomy and provides a review of various pediatric orbital pathologies and their key imaging features.

Learning Objective: To recognize the normal embryologic development, anatomy, and key imaging features of common ocular pathologies in the pediatric population to aid the neuroradiologist in promptly detecting and confidently establishing the diagnosis of pediatric ocular disease