Optic nerve compression due to aneurysmal bone cyst
R. D. Yee, D. G. Cogan, T. R. Thorp and L. Schut
A 10-year-old boy developed loss of central vision in both eyes due to
compression of the optic nerves by a mass arising from the sphenoid and
ethmoid sinuses. Histopathologic examination of biopsy specimens showed a
fibrous matrix composed of spindle-shaped cells interspersed with small and
large channels, characteristic of an aneurysmal bons cyst. One year after
partial excision of the intracranial and extracranial portions fo the
lesions, vision had returned to nearly normal levels. Aneurysmal bone cysts
rarely involve the orbits or other cranial bones to produce ocular signs
and symptoms. However, since this lesion probably represents reactive
proliferation of bony tissues, rather than neoplasia, the prognosis for
vision and life is good.
