111 - Cribra Orbitalia Is Not Related to the Size of the Optic Canal

Poster Board Number: 111
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Abstract Body : Cribra orbitalia is an osteological phenomena characterized by a disruption the smooth surface of the orbital roof. It has been described as porotic lesions that are often accompanied by decreased bone density. The myriad etiologies for have been posited for cribra orbitalia, which include, but are not limited to, inflammation, anemia, nutritional deficiencies, stress, and, more recently, vascular anatomical variation. A recent report suggested the decrease in orbital roof density associated with cribra orbitalia may reduce the optic canal diameter, or cause its stenosis. To test this hypothesis, 83 skulls (43 females and 40 males), located in the West Virginia University School of Medicine osteological skull collection, were examined. The orbital roofs and optic canals were inspected via un-aided eye with transillumination of fiberoptic lights and manual manipulation of the skulls. A photographic image showing the internal base of the skull to capture each optic canal with a digital caliper set to 10mm for standardization. These images were processed within ImageJ to determine the diameter and area of the optic canal. Each orbital roof was examined to determine the presence, location, and laterality of cribra orbitalia, degree of disruption of the orbital roof, and additional features. The results of this study determined no significant relationship between the presence of cribra orbitalia and the area or diameter of the optic canal.