Imaging of superior ophthalmic vein: A pictorial overview

Abstract

The Superior Ophthalmic Vein (SOV) is the largest vein of the orbit and represents an important orbital venous drainage pathway. SOV is well identifiable on CT and MRI, and its alterations may be a clue for differential diagnosis. In this pictorial work we illustrate the most frequent conditions in which SOV appearance may be influenced by various pathologies, providing a pictorial guide for imaging interpretation.

Keywords: CT; MRI; Neuroradiology; Superior ophthalmic vein.