Superior divisional third nerve palsy due to breast cancer metastasis to the orbital apex

Int J Neurosci. 2023 Dec;133(10):1129-1131. doi: 10.1080/00207454.2022.2056458. Epub 2022 Apr 6.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a case of breast cancer with metastasis to the orbital apex with manifestation of superior divisional third nerve palsy.

Case description: A 40-year-old female, a known case of breast cancer diagnosed 3 years ago, referred to our neuro-ophthalmology clinic with chief complaint of ptosis and diplopia. In ophthalmic examination, visual acuities of both eyes were 20/20 and there was no significant finding in the anterior and posterior segment ophthalmic examination. There was left eye ptosis with MRD1 of 2 mm. In ocular movement examination, there was limitation of motion in supraduction (-2 to -3) of the left eye. Orbital MRI with contrast was requested for the patient which demonstrated a lesion in the orbital apex of the left eye. At the end, the patient was diagnosed as having superior divisional third nerve palsy. Orbital radiotherapy was recommended for the patient.

Conclusion: In a patient with breast cancer who presents with diplopia, metastasis to the orbital apex with manifestation of divisional third nerve palsy should be kept in mind, and appropriate orbital imaging should be considered.

Keywords: Breast cancer; orbital apex metastasis; superior divisional third nerve palsy; third nerve palsy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Breast Neoplasms* / complications
  • Breast Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Diplopia / etiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Melanoma, Cutaneous Malignant
  • Oculomotor Nerve Diseases* / diagnostic imaging
  • Oculomotor Nerve Diseases* / etiology
  • Oculomotor Nerve Diseases* / pathology
  • Orbital Neoplasms* / complications
  • Orbital Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging