Objective: In order to evaluate the relationship between the orbital neoplasms and the resulting visual field damage.
Method: 22 cases of orbital tumors and tumor-like lesions were examined with automated perimetry.
Results: Visual field alterations varied from arcuate, inferior altitudinal, ceeocentral scotomas, to temporal hemianopsia and diffuse defect. The surgical removal of the tumor or steroid administration was followed by partial or full perimetric recovery.
Conclusions: Visual field alteration reflects the severity of the optic nerve damage. The impairment is reversible. Apical masses may cause severe optic neuropathy. Axonal and vascular factors are involved in the main pathological mechanisms of the disease.