Orbital foreign body misdiagnosed as superior orbital rim fracture

Orbital foreign bodies may be difficult to diagnose clinically and radiologically. In cases where a foreign body is suspected, both the mechanism of injury and the composition of the offending material need to be taken into account. A case is described of an orbital foreign body misdiagnosed as a superior orbital rim fracture, resulting in persistent ptosis and diplopia, and leading to delayed recovery for the patient, a commercial airline pilot.