Eyes, bulging

Alternative names:

bulging eyes; exophthalmos; proptosis; protruding eyes

Definition:

The abnormal protrusion of one or both eyeballs.

Considerations:

Prominent, but not bulging, eyes may be a family characteristic. Bulging eyes should receive prompt attention. Bulging of a single eye, especially in children, is a very significant sign and should be evaluated immediately.

Hyperthyroidism (Graves' disease) is probably the most common cause of bulging eyes (exophthalmos). With this condition, the eyes don't blink very often and seem to have a staring quality. The eye changes develop slowly and family members may not notice until the condition is relatively advanced. Photographs often draw attention to the bulging when it may have gone unnoticed otherwise.

Common causes:

• hyperthyroidism
• Graves' disease
• histiocytosis
• rhabdomyosarcoma
• neuroblastoma
• leukemia
• orbital cellulitis (or periorbital cellulitis)
• iatrogenic hyperthyroidism
• hemangioma

Note: There may be other causes bulging eyes. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as exact location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for bulging eyes, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.