Which eye condition can lead to transient proptosis?

Transient proptosis, or the temporary protrusion of the eyeball, is often associated with conditions that involve inflammation or increased pressure within the orbit. Orbital cellulitis, an infection of the orbital soft tissues, can lead to swelling and inflammation, resulting in the displacement of the eyeball. This condition is characterized by symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes fever, which are indicative of an acute inflammatory process that can cause the eye to protrude.

In contrast, conditions like glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, and cataracts do not typically present with transient proptosis. Glaucoma involves increased intraocular pressure but does not cause the eye to protrude; instead, it may lead to vision loss if left untreated. Dry eye syndrome primarily affects tear production and eye lubrication but also does not result in proptosis. Cataracts are related to lens opacification and do not influence the position of the eyeball within the orbit. Therefore, orbital cellulitis is correctly identified as a condition that can result in transient proptosis due to the inflammatory processes involved.