What findings on exam are consistant with orbital cellulitis?

When approaching a swollen eyelid, the most important distinction for you to determine, is whether the infection tracks back behind the orbital septum. An orbital cellulitis is a dangerous process, which can cause blindness or even death if the infection tracks back to the CSF fluid. Signs of post-septal (orbital cellulitis) are obvious, and include:

• Proptosis (from swelling)
• Chemosis (from swelling)
• Decreased eye movement (from muscle involvement)
• Decreased vision (from optic nerve involvement)