The eye sockets (orbits) are bony cavities that contain and protect the eyes and their supporting structures (see figures An Inside Look at the Eye An Inside Look at the Eye 
and Structures That Protect the Eye Structures That Protect the Eye 
). Disorders affecting the contents of the orbits include
An Inside Look at the Eye
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Infections (for example, orbital cellulitis Orbital Cellulitis Orbital cellulitis is infection affecting the tissue within the orbit and around and behind the eye. Infection can spread to the orbit from sources such as the sinuses around the nose. Symptoms... read more
and preseptal cellulitis Preseptal Cellulitis Preseptal cellulitis is infection of the eyelid and skin and tissues around the front of the eye. (See also Introduction to Eye Socket Disorders.) Both preseptal cellulitis and orbital cellulitis... read more 
)
Thyroid disease Graves disease Hyperthyroidism is overactivity of the thyroid gland that leads to high levels of thyroid hormones and speeding up of vital body functions. Graves disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism... read more 
can also affect the contents of the orbits.
Many orbital disorders require treatment by a medical doctor who specializes in eye disorders (ophthalmologist).
Structures That Protect the Eye
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