Nontraumatic orbital hematoma secondary to labor and childbirth: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Purpose: Non-traumatic orbital hemorrhage without underlying vascular malformations or predisposing conditions is uncommon, and particularly rare in the context of maternal labor. This study combines a novel case report and retrospective review to analyze reported cases and propose insights.

Methods: This study is both a unique case report and literature review examining PubMed publications with articles traced back to original sources through citations for inclusion. Analysis included clinical presentation, visual examination, hematoma characteristics, neuroimaging, management strategies, and outcomes.

Results: We present a 37-year-old multigravida woman at 40 weeks gestation who developed acute right-sided proptosis, diplopia, retrobulbar pain, and periorbital edema during the second stage of labor. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a subperiosteal hemorrhage, with subsequent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) excluding vascular anomalies. Symptoms resolved within two months. Only 14 cases of maternal orbital hematoma associated with labor have been reported. The average age was 28 with 42% (6/14) being primigravid. Including our case, forty percent (6/15) developed symptoms during the second stage of labor, 40% (6/15) immediately postpartum, and 20% (3/15) over 24 hours postpartum. Overall, 33% (5/15) had potentially contributing conditions including coagulopathies, delivery complications, or vascular malformations. Unilateral orbital hemorrhage occurred in 87% (13/15). Surgical intervention was necessary in 13% (2/15). Most (87%, 13/15) underwent observation or medical management with full recovery of symptoms.

Conclusions: Non-traumatic orbital hematomas associated with maternal labor are rare and likely related to increased valsalva during delivery and heightened blood volume in pregnancy. Neuro-imaging and systemic workup are recommended to assess for vascular anomalies or underlying coagulopathies. The overall prognosis is favorable with most having full recovery.

Keywords: Maternal orbital hematoma; Non-traumatic spontaneous orbital hematoma; Orbital subperiosteal hemorrhage; Pregnancy associated orbital hemorrhage; Retrobulbar hematoma.