Advances and Challenges in Orbital Imaging: From Radiography to Modern MRI and 3D Technologies

Orbital imaging plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis and management of orbital and periorbital diseases. Over the past decades, the field has undergone a remarkable transformation—from rudimentary radiographic techniques to advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and three-dimensional (3D) processing technologies, dramatically enhancing diagnostic precision and patient outcomes.

This evolution has significantly impacted clinical decision-making, particularly in complex conditions involving inflammatory, neoplastic, or vascular pathologies. Notably, the transition from computed tomography (CT) to MRI has become central in the evaluation of orbital soft tissue diseases, especially in sensitive populations such as paediatric patients. Concurrently, the integration of 3D image reconstruction and processing has enabled more accurate volumetric and morphometric analyses, supporting more refined treatment planning.

Despite these advancements, important gaps remain. Questions persist regarding the optimal imaging modality for specific clinical scenarios, the variability in diagnostic performance across patient subgroups, and the impact of these technologies on long-term clinical outcomes. Furthermore, debates continue over the practical limitations of CT, MRI, ultrasound, Doppler, and newer modalities such as anterior segment OCT and ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM), particularly in the context of surface and orbital tumours.

This Research Topic aims to comprehensively trace the historical development of orbital imaging techniques and critically examine the key milestones that have shaped the field. Emphasis will be placed on the transition from CT to MRI in orbital assessment, the application of 3D image processing in diagnostic enhancement, and the integration of emerging modalities in clinical practice.

We invite original research articles, reviews, and expert perspectives addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

· Historical evolution of orbital imaging modalities
· Comparative efficacy of CT and MRI in paediatric orbital assessment
· Diagnostic value of MR modalities in differentiating inflammatory versus malignant orbital tumors
· Role of 3D image processing in enhancing orbital measurements
· Clinical outcomes influenced by advances in imaging technologies
· Limitations and ongoing debates in current and past imaging approaches
· Imaging and diagnostic strategies for orbital vascular malformations
· The contribution of ultrasound Doppler in orbital pathology evaluation
· The role of UBM and anterior segment OCT in the assessment of ocular surface malignancies with orbital and intraocular extension

Through this collection, we aim to highlight the progress, unresolved challenges, and future directions in orbital imaging, fostering innovation and improved patient care in oculoplastic and orbital disease management.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Orbital imaging, diagnostic imaging evolution, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), pediatric orbital assessment, 3D image processing, oculoplastic disease management

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.