Raccoon eyes

Raccoon Eyes (Periorbital Ecchymosis)

Raccoon eyes, also known as panda eyes in the United Kingdom and Ireland, or periorbital ecchymosis, is a medical sign that may indicate a basal skull fracture, subgaleal hematoma, a craniotomy that ruptured the meninges, or, in rare cases, certain types of cancer.

Raccoon eyes in a patient

Description

Raccoon eyes refer to bruising around the eyes that resemble the mask-like patterns seen in raccoons. This condition arises due to bilateral hemorrhage, often as a result of facial fractures that tear the meninges, leading to bleeding from the venous sinuses into the arachnoid villi and cranial sinuses. In simpler terms, blood from a skull fracture seeps into the soft tissues around the eyes.

Associated Conditions

Raccoon eyes are commonly associated with:

• Basal skull fractures
• Subgaleal hematoma
• Post-cranial surgery complications

In rare instances, they may also signal the presence of certain cancers.

Diagnosis and Symptoms

The appearance of raccoon eyes typically occurs within 48 to 72 hours after an injury. They may present alongside Battle's sign, which is an ecchymosis (bruising) behind the ear. These signs can sometimes be the sole indicators of a skull fracture, as the fracture may not be visible on an X-ray.

Medical Advice and Precautions

It is recommended that individuals with raccoon eyes should avoid blowing their nose or coughing vigorously to prevent further complications. Medical attention is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

External Links

• Healthline: Raccoon Eyes
• Medscape: Basal Skull Fracture

Raccoon eyes Resources
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