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Aim: To determine the frequency of sinopulmonary infections, detect changes in the respiratory system, and measure functional capacity of the lungs in our patients with humoral immunodeficiency. Material and Methods: Fifty-six patients with humoral immunodeficiency were enrolled in this study. The clinical, laboratory, and radiologic data, and pulmonary function tests of the subjects were evaluated from their file records, retrospectively. Results: The distribution of our patients was as follows: 25 patients had common variable immune deficiency, three patients had X-linked agammaglobulinemia, five patients had hyper immunoglobulin M syndrome, 19 patients had deficiency of immunoglobulin G subset, and four patients had selective immunoglobulin A deficiency. The most common symptom of the patients was chronic cough (n=47, 83.9%). The most common pathologies on high-resolution computed tomography of the chest were atelectasis and bronchiectasis (27.7%). The most common pathology in pulmonary function tests was the presence of moderate obstructive patterns along with restrictive patterns (n=6,12.5%). The FEV 1, FVC, and FEF 25-75 values were significantly lower in patients with common variable immunodeficiency compared with the patients who had IgG subset deficiencies (p=0.001, p=0.01, p=0.01). Among the patients who were treated with intravenous immunoglobulin, the age at the diagnosis of immunodeficiency was higher in patients with bronchiectasis (14.2 +/- 8.4 years) compared with those without bronchiectasis (10.1 +/- 11.4 years) (p=0.04). Conclusion: Clinical findings are not sufficient to monitor the structural and functional changes in the respiratory system, and patients should be evaluated using high-resolution computed tomography of the chest and pulmonary function tests. Amaç: Humoral immün yetmezlik tanılı olgularımızda, sinopulmoner enfeksiyonların sıklığı ve bunların sonucunda solunum sisteminde meydana gelen değişikliklerin saptanması ve fonksiyonel akciğer kapasitelerinin ölçülmesi amaçlanmıştır. Gereç ve Yöntemler: Çalışmaya humoral immün yetmezlik tanılı 56 olgu alındı. Olguların dosya kayıtlarından klinik, laboratuvar, radyolojik görüntüleme bulguları ve solunum fonksiyon testi verileri geriye dönük olarak incelendi. Bulgular: Olguların tanılara göre dağılımı; yaygın değişken immün yetmezlik tanılı 25 olgu, X’e bağlı agamaglobulinemi tanılı üç olgu, Hiper immunoglobulin M sendromu tanılı beş olgu, İgG alt grup eksikliği tanılı 19 olgu ve selektif immunoglobulin A eksikliği tanılı dört olgu şeklindedir. Olguların 37’si (%66,1) erkek 19’u (%33,9) kadın, yaş ortalaması 14,1±10,6 yıldı. Olguların en sık yakınması kronik öksürük idi (n=47, %83,9). Akciğerlerin yüksek çözünürlüklü bilgisayarlı tomografilerinde en sık görülen patoloji atelektazi ve bronşiektaziydi (%27,7). Solunum fonksiyon testlerinde en sık görülen anormallik orta obstrüktif ve orta restriktif patern birlikteliğiydi (n=6,%12,5). Solunum fonksiyon testi bulguları ile radyolojik bulguların her zaman tutarlı olmadığı görüldü. İntravenöz immünglobulin alan olgular arasında yaygın değişken immün yetmezlik tanılı olgularda, immünglobulin G alt grup eksikliği olan olgulara göre solunum fonksiyon testlerinde; FEV 1, FVC ve FEF 25–75 değerlerinin anlamlı düşük olduğu saptandı (p=0,001, p=0,01, p=0,01). İntravenöz immünglobulin tedavisi alan olgularda; bronşiektazisi olanların immün yetmezlik tanı yaşı (14,2±8,4 yıl), olmayanlara (10,1±11,4 yıl) göre anlamlı olarak büyüktü (p=0,04). Çıkarımlar: Klinik bulgular solunum sistemindeki yapısal ve fonksiyonel değişiklikleri izlemek için yeterli değildir ve olgular gereğinde akciğer yüksek çözünürlüklü bilgisayarlı tomografi ve solunum fonksiyon testleri ile değerlendirilmelidir.

Objective Although lipomatous tumors are the most common type of mesenchymal tumors in adults, they account for less than 10% of all soft tissue lesions in pediatric patients. In this descriptive study, we aim to present our series of pediatric lipomatous tumors consisting of lipoma, neural fibrolipoma, lipoblastoma, atypical lipomatous tumor, myxoid liposarcoma and pleomorphic liposarcoma, and to evaluate the clinicopathological characteristics of these tumors in reference to the literature. Material and method In this study, pediatric lipomatous tumor cases diagnosed between 2002 and 2018 were screened from pathological archives and retrospectively evaluated. Results A total of 50 cases were diagnosed with lipomatous tumor within the mentioned period. Of the total cases, 24 were female (48%) and 26 were male (52%), with age distribution ranging from 1 to 204 months. Histopathological examination revealed lipoma in 26 cases (52%), lipoblastoma in 19 (38%), atypical lipomatous tumor in 2 (4%), myxoid liposarcoma in 2 (4%), and pleomorphic liposarcoma in 1 case (2%). Conclusion Although lipomatous tumors are the most common type of mesenchymal tumors; they rarely occur in children. Since there is a limited number of studies on pediatric lipomatous tumors in the literature, there is insufficient data on the prevalence and incidence of these tumors. These tumors may slowly enlarge to greater sizes, especially those localized in deep tissues, and may cause various clinical symptoms by compressing surrounding tissues. Local recurrences may occur, even after total excision, and require close monitoring.

Surgery is the first treatment option for patients with metopic craniosynostosis. Fronto-orbital advancement is the preferred method for correction of isolated trigonocephaly, but it is hard to understand whether surgery has been successful mainly in an early period. We aim to investigate the shape differences in the head shapes of trigonocephaly patients compared between preoperative and postoperative term. Cranial shape data were collected from the two-dimensional digital images. The Generalized Procrustes analysis was used to obtain mean shapes of the preoperative and postoperative term. The shape deformation of the frontal calvarium from preoperative to the postoperative term was evaluated using the thin-plate spline (TPS) method. There was significant cranial shape difference between preoperative and postoperative term. The high-level deformations for preoperative to postoperative term determined seen in TPS graphic. Highest deformation was observed at the bifrontal dimension especially at nasion and posterior edge of the forehead. In this study, we showed that the shape difference and structural deformation of the calvarium were correlated with the metopic craniosynostosis. The present study also shows that preoperative and postoperative head shapes of patients with trigonocephaly can be compared using the landmark-based geometrical morphometric method by taking into consideration the topographic distribution.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic utility of superb microvascular imaging (SMI) in assessment of synovitis/tenosynovitis in juvenile idiopathic arthritis in comparison to power Doppler ultrasound. Thirty juvenile idiopathic arthritis cases with active clinical findings and ultrasound features of effusion and/or tenosynovitis were further imaged with power Doppler and SMI. For classification of synovial inflammation, a semiquantitative scale (4 points) adopted by Outcome Measures in Rheumatology was used.A total of 35 knee, 2 hip, 2 ankle, 2 wrist, 2 elbow joints, and 6 flexor hallucis longus/tibialis posterior tenosynovitis were assessed. In knee joint, power Doppler and SMI scales were the same for 23 (65.7%) joints, SMI upgraded scale from 0 to 2 in single joint (2.9%); 1 to 2 (14.3%) in 5 joints; and 2 to 3 (17.1%) in 6 joints. For other joints, power Doppler and SMI scales were the same for 5 (62.5%) joints. Superb microvascular imaging upgraded scale from 1 to 2 (25%) in 2 joints and 1 to 3 (12.5%) in a single joint. For flexor hallucis longus/tibialis posterior tenosynovitis, power Doppler and SMI scales were the same for two cases (33.3%). Superb microvascular imaging upgraded scale from 0 to 2 in two cases (33.3%); and 2 to 3 (33.3%) in 2 cases. There was no case of SMI scale downgraded compared with power Doppler scale.Superb microvascular imaging is a feasible technique in the assessment of synovial inflammation and tenosynovitis in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Superb microvascular imaging has higher sensitivity compared with power Doppler ultrasound in depiction of increased vascularity.

A 16-year-old male presented with a three year history of right proptosis. All other ocular findings were normal. Imaging demonstrated a large, calcified, contrast-enhancing mass in the apical orbit. The tumour had high gallium-68-DOTATATE uptake and low 18F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose uptake. An incisional biopsy revealed a diagnosis of psammomatous optic nerve sheath meningioma (ONSM). One year later stereotactic radiotherapy was performed due to tumour growth. Tumour size and visual acuity remained stable in the six months after treatment. This case differs from previously reported paediatric ONSMs by its histo-clinical characteristics (exophytic-calcified mass, visual preservation, psammomatous histology).

BackgroundAnhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (AED) is a rare, mostly X-linked recessive genodermatosis, characterized by congenital defects of ectodermal derivative structures as the central nervous system (CNS) is primarily ectodermal in origin.PurposeTo evaluate CNS variations and abnormalities in AED.Material and MethodsA retrospective analysis was made of the neurological and neuroimaging findings of 17 children (12 boys, 5 girls; median age = 8 years; age range = 2–14 years) diagnosed with AED in our pediatric clinics during 2008–2016. The pattern of CNS variation and abnormalities were evaluated by comparing of these findings with an age- and gender-matched healthy control group with no family history.ResultsOf the 17 AED cases identified on the basis of neuroimaging findings, 6 (35.3%) were seen to be normal. Associated CNS variation and abnormalities including cavum septum pellucidum (35.3%), callosal dysgenesis (11.8%), prominent Virchow–Robin spaces (64.7%), cortical sulcal dilation (41.1%), mega cisterna magna (35.3%), focal cortical dysplasia (11.8%), and delayed myelination (58.8%) were observed in 11 (64.7%) children with AED.ConclusionAED suggests a spectrum of CNS variation and abnormalities, presenting with neurological and neuroimaging findings, demonstrated in the embryonic surface- and neuro-ectoderm derived structures. The results of this study suggest that CNS variation and abnormalities might be associated with AED.

Clavicle duplication is a rare entity with limited number of cases reported. Congenital origin and trauma related mechanisms are the main hypotheses to explain this anatomical variation. In skeletally immature patient, trauma may cause physeal-metaphyseal injury in the distal clavicle rather than acromioclavicular strain. The distal epiphysis remains in continuity with acromion and has an intact periosteal sleeve. The periosteal sleeve is extremely osteogenic, and may lead to new bone formation between epiphysis and displaced metaphysis. This remodeling potential and the intact acromioclavicular joint allow the children to be followed by closed reduction. However, there can be new bone formation between epiphysis and displaced metaphysis, resulting in clavicle duplication. Herein, we present the radiographic and computed tomography findings of a post-traumatic duplication of the clavicle in a 5-year-old boy.

Objective Diabetes is one of the primary diagnoses for admission to home health care units. Although there are many studies about elderly diabetic patients, there are not many studies on home care patients with diabetes. The present study aims to analyze the current status of diabetic home care patients with their biochemical data and medications. Methods This was a retrospective study, including 256 diabetic patients who were following up by the Home Health Unit of Istanbul Provincial Health Directorate Public Hospitals Services-2. In this study, we analyzed the current biochemical data of the patients with their medications. Results In this study, 185 female (72.3%) and 71 male (27.7%) patients were recruited with the mean HbA1c of 8.25±1.77. Among these patients, 65% of them were using oral antidiabetic (OAD), and 58% were using insulin. There were 21 (8.2%) patients who were not receiving any treatment. While patients who were using only oral antidiabetic have better A1c levels (A1c: 7.73±1.45), patients who were insulin using had HbA1c levels as high as the patients who were not using any medication. This may be due to the progression of diabetes, fear of hypoglycemia or insufficient insulin use. While metformin was the most commonly used OAD, with a 38% usage rate. When compared to HbA1c levels, there was no difference between the types of insulin used (p=0.167). Conclusion As a result, it is important to plan regular visits and personalized treatment by keeping in mind the benefits to risk ratios in home-care diabetic patients.

Aim To investigate the differences in the head shapes of scaphocephaly patients during the pre- and postoperative phases. Material and methods Cranium shape data were collected from the two-dimensional digital images. The generalised Procrustes analysis was used to obtain mean shapes in the pre- and postoperative phases. The shape deformation of the cranium from the pre- to postoperative phases was evaluated using the thin plate spline method. Results There was no significant cranial shape difference in the pre and postoperative phases. The high-level deformations from the pre- to postoperative phase were seen in thin plate spline graphs. The highest deformation was observed at the biparietal dimension. Conclusion In this study, we showed that the structural deformation of the cranium was correlated with sagittal craniosynostosis. The present study also shows that pre- and postoperative head shapes of patients with scaphocephaly can be compared using head shape with the landmark-based geometric morphometric method by taking into consideration the topographic distribution.

AIM To present cross-sectional imaging, surgical findings, and follow-up results of diaphragmatic mesothelial cysts. MATERIALS AND METHODS Radiological findings for location, size, shape, and internal structure of cysts were reviewed retrospectively. For patients that underwent surgery, surgical reports and laparoscopy images were reviewed. In conservatively managed patients, changes in size and imaging findings of the cyst were assessed during follow-up visits. RESULTS A total of 13 paediatric cases with an imaging and/or pathological diagnosis of diaphragmatic mesothelial cyst were identified. In all cases, the cystic lesions were located between the diaphragm and the posterolateral aspect of the right lobe of the liver. Eleven lesions (84.6%) had a bi-lobulate shape. Eight of these cases underwent laparoscopic cyst aspiration/unroofing. The postoperative course was uneventful and there were no cases of recurrence. The remaining five cases were managed conservatively with follow-up available in four cases. In three cases (75%), there was reduction in the size of the cysts with a mean volume reduction of 55%. CONCLUSION Diaphragmatic mesothelial cysts are congenital cystic lesions that are usually detected incidentally. A common pitfall is incorrect interpretation of the lesion as a hepatic cyst. Conservative management with imaging follow-up can be adopted in asymptomatic cases with typical imaging findings.

Objective: Fibrous dysplasia is a slowly progressing bone lesion resulting from displacement of the normal medullary bone with abnormal fibroosseous tissue. The aim of this study was to assess the similarities and differences of our cases in relation to published reports. Material and Method: In this study, the archives of the Uludag University Medical Faculty Department of Pathology were screened for fibrous dysplasia cases between 2004 and 2016. Results: Within the mentioned period, there were 36 cases diagnosed as fibrous dysplasia. There were 21 male, and 15 female cases with an average age of 27.8±14.8 years (range 7-79 years). The most frequently affected sites were femur, costae, and craniofacial bones. There was one case localized to metacarpal bone, a very rare affection site. There were 4 polyostotic cases including 2 cases of McCune-Albright syndrome. Pelvic bone was affected in the polyostotic type, similar to published reports. Unlike former reports, however, long tubular bones were affected in male patients in our series. In our series, 32 cases had classical fibrous dysplasia, 3 cases had fibrocartilaginous, and one case had fibroosseous variants. Four cases localized to costae were accompanied by aneurysmal bone cyst. The presenting symptom was pathological fractures in a total of 4 cases, 3 localized to the femur, and 1 to the costa. Recurrence occurred in 5 cases treated with curettage. Two of the monostotic fibrous dysplasia cases developed malignant transformation into osteosarcoma. Conclusion: We conclude that our series of fibrous dysplasia cases have slight differences and mainly similar characteristics with the series reported earlier, when all features are taken into consideration.

Horseshoe lung is a rare congenital anomaly and mostly accompanied by scimitar syndrome. Most aspects of this complex anomaly can be demonstrated via multidetector CT (MDCT). We present two baby girls who had horseshoe lung associated with right lung hypoplasia and scimitar vein. The chest roentgenograms showed displacement of the heart and mediastinum to the right with smaller right lung. Echocardiography revealed dextroposition, secundum atrial septal defect and bilateral slight peripheral pulmonary stenosis in the first case and dextroposition, severe pulmonary hypertension, secundum atrial septal defect and tricuspid regurgitation in the other one. On thoracic MDCT, the right lung and pulmonary artery were hypoplastic with cardiomediastinal shift to the right. There was an abnormal right pulmonary vein draining into the inferior vena cava on the lower zone of the right lung (scimitar vein). The posterobasal portions of the both lungs were fused through a midline isthmus behind the heart.

Plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor is an extremely rare soft tissue tumor with a low malignancy potential. The patient is usually a child or a young adolescent and the tumor is usually localized in the upper extremities. We report on a case of a 21-year old male with a plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor in the left fibula admitted to our hospital due to a swelling and pain in the left lower extremity. Radiologically a lytic lesion in the distal end of left fibula consistent with a non-aggressive lesion with low biological activity was found. Treated with curettage, the specimen revealed plexiform proliferation of mononuclear histiocyte-like cells, multinucleated osteoclast-like cells, and spindle fibroblast-like cells in variable proportions histopathologically. Immunohistochemical stains were positive for CD68 in scattered fashion in histiocytes and giant cells, and spindle like cells showed positivity for smooth muscle actin. Under electron microscopy, rough endoplasmic reticulum and collagen bundles in the spindle cells suggested fibroblastic differentiation. Also multiple large electron-dense lysosomal granules in histiocytoid cells were found. Multinucleated giant cells exhibited osteoclast-like appearance. All these findings suggested plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor. Interestingly, the tumor was localized in bone. During the follow up for 27 months after the resection, there was no recurrence or metastasis.

Objectives: Pott puffy tumor (PPT) is defined as soft tissue swelling of the forehead due to subperiosteal edema, accumulation of pus, or granulation tissue. It is associated with osteomyelitis of frontal bone secondary to frontal sinusitis. Pott puffy tumor can be complicated by preseptal and orbital cellulitis and intracranial infection. Methods: Six patients diagnosed with and treated for PPT in Pediatric Clinic of Uludag University Faculty of Medicine from 2010 to 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. Age, sex, presenting symptoms and signs, laboratory and radiological findings, as well as intracranial complications and treatment modalities of all patients were evaluated. Results: The authors present 6 pediatric patients of PPT, 5 males and 1 female with a mean age of 11 years (age range, 7-18 years). All patients presented with headache, fever, and tender frontal swelling. Two of the patients had epidural abscess and 1 had preseptal orbital cellulitis in addition to PPT. All of them had computed tomography scan and/or magnetic resonance imaging. Endoscopic sinus surgery was performed in 4 patients and 2 patients underwent neurosurgical intervention with antibiotherapy. Conclusions: Pott puffy tumor may be associated with potentially dangerous intracranial complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality. Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis of the disease and the detection of its complications.

Congenital short oesophagus and with intrathoracic development of the stomach is a rare developmental anomaly of the gastrointestinal system. Knowledge regarding its aetiology and management is limited. We report a case in which, in addition to short oesophagus and intrathoracic stomach, an encephalocele was identified during the antenatal period. After the postpartum examination, encephalocele, split notochord malformation, midline localized liver and congenital short oesophagus were confirmed. The report of this case adds to the body of knowledge on this rare condition.

Rickets is a complication of infantile osteopetrosis and pre-treatment recognition of this complication is important. To describe four children with infantile osteopetrosis complicated by rickets (osteopetrorickets) and review the relevant literature. Retrospective chart analysis of four infants with osteopetrorickets and a systematic review of the relevant literature. We saw five children with infantile osteopetrosis, of whom four had superimposed rickets, for a period of 12 years. The review of the literature (including the current four children), yielded 20 children with infantile osteopetrorickets. The children ranged in age from 2 months to 12 months. In all children, hepatosplenomegaly was found. Sixteen (80%) children had visual impairments and eight (40%) children had hearing impairments. Serum calcium-phosphorus product was less than 30 in 18 children (90%). Twelve children (60%) were hypocalcemic and 18 (90%) were hypophosphatemic. In all children, the radiological examination demonstrated diffuse bony sclerosis and metaphyseal splaying and fraying of long bones. Five children (25%) had pathological fracture of extremities and 15 (75%) had rachitic rosary. Rickets as a complication to infantile osteopetrosis is not uncommon. Skeletal roentgenograms are of critical importance in the diagnosis of both osteopetrosis and superimposed rickets.

Osteofibrous dysplasia is a rare and benign disease that originates from the tibia or fibula. The symptoms of osteofibrous dysplasia include painless enlargement and bowing of the tibia and pain occurring in the presence of pathological fracture. Herein a male infant who was admitted with redness and swelling on the right leg and diagnosed as pathological tibia fracture due to left tibia osteofibrous dysplasia on the third day of life was presented. To our knowledge, this is the earliest presentation of osteofibrous dysplasia with a pathological fracture in a neonate. Therefore, it must be suspected in neonatal bone fractures.

Most of the orbital osteomas arise from the adjacent paranasal sinuses. Some of them may contain osteoblastoma-like areas and may be misdiagnosed as osteoblastoma, both radiologically as well as histopathologically. Sino-orbital osteomas with osteoblastoma-like features show a typical radiological appearance. They have a distinct zonal pattern, in which less dense osteoblastoma-like areas are located at the base of the lesion and dense mature bone is located at the periphery. These broad-based bone lesions also have a tendency for extracavitary polypoid growths from the paranasal sinus into the adjacent orbit. We report here the CT and MR imaging findings of three cases with sino-orbital osteoma with osteoblastoma-like features.

Objectives: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in demonstrating erosive alterations during the early period of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Patients and methods: Twenty-one wrists of 14 patients (11 females, 3 males; mean age 54 years; range 37 to 64 years) diagnosed with RA by clinical data and laboratory results were examined with MRI. The disease activity was determined by C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rates. Wrist radiographies of all the patients were either normal or had suspicious signs. The presence of bone erosion was evaluated in 15 different regions (8 carpal bones, 5 metacarpal heads, 1 distal radius, and 1 distal ulna). Coronal and axial T1-weighted spin echo (SE) images with and without fat suppression, coronal T2-weighted turbo SE images with fat suppression, and coronal T1-weighted SE images with fat suppression following administration of intravenous gadopenteate dimeglumine were obtained. Results: In all cases, the wrist radiographs were either normal or exhibited suspicious findings. Bone erosion was found in 73 (81.1%) different sites in carpal bones, four different sites in distal radius (4.4%), four (4.4%) different sites in distal ulna, and nine (10%) different sites in proximal metacarpal heads. While capitatum (27.3%) and triquetrum (24.6%) were the most commonly affected sites, pisiforme (1.6) was found be the least affected site. Among the 21 wrist MRIs showing erosion, nine (42.8%) had synovitis, three (14.2%) had tenosynovitis, two (9.5%) had bursitis, and seven (33.3%) had bone marrow edema. Conclusion: Magnetic resonance imaging may be an effective diagnostic method for the determination of early period joint involvement in RA cases. Amaç: Bu çalışmada, romatoid artritin (RA) erken dönem eroziv değişikliklerinin ortaya konmasında, manyetik resonans görüntülemenin (MRG) etkinliği değerlendirildi. Hastalar ve yöntemler: Klinik veriler ve laboratuvar sonuçlarıyla RA tanısı konulan 14 hastada (11 kadın, 3 erkek; ort yaş 54 yıl; dağılım 37-64 yıl) 21 el bileği MRG ile incelendi. Hastalık aktivitesi C-reaktif protein ve eritrosit sedimantasyon oranı ile belirlendi. Hastaların hepsinde el bileği grafisi normaldi ya da şüpheli bulgular vardı. Kemik erozyonlarının varlığı 15 farklı bölgede (8 karpal kemik, 5 metakarp başı, 1 distal radius ve 1 distal ulna) değerlendirildi. Yağ baskılamalı ve yağ baskılamasız koronal ve aksiyal T1-ağırlıklı spin eko (SE) görüntüleri, yağ baskılamalı T2-ağırlıklı koronal turbo SE görüntüleri ve intravenöz gadopentetat dimeglumin verilmesinden sonra yağ baskılamalı T1-ağırlıklı koronal SE görüntüleri elde edildi. Bulgular: Olguların hepsinde el bileği grafisi ya normaldi ya da şüpheli bulgular vardı. Karpal kemiklerde 73 (%81.1) farklı bölgede, distal radiusta dört (%4.4) farklı bölgede, distal ulnada dört (%4.4) farklı bölgede, proximal metakarp başlarında dokuz (%10) farklı bölgede kemik erozyonu tespit edildi. Kapitatum (%27.3) ve triquetrum (%24.6) en çok ekilenen bölge iken, pisiforme en az etkilenen bölge (%1.6) olarak tespit edildi. Erozyon saptanan 21 elbileği MRG’sinin dokuzunda (%42.8) sinovit, üçünde tenosinovit (%14.2), ikisinde bursit (%9.5) ve yedisinde kemik iliği ödemi (%33.3) vardı. Sonuç: Manyetik resonans görüntüleme RA'lı olgularda erken dönem eklem tutulumunu saptamada etkin bir tanı yöntemi olabilir.

Purpose: Evaluation of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI) findings in cases clinically diagnosed as adhesive capsulitis (AC). Methods: CE-MRI images of 12 cases diagnosed as AC (13 shoulder joints) and nine control cases were retrospectively evaluated. AC diagnosis was established based on the history and clinical symptoms. MR signal intensity changes in the axillary pouch, rotator interval, biceps anchor and anterior–posterior capsules were analysed with regard to the presence of abnormal soft tissue and contrast enhancement. Capsular and synovial thickening were measured in the axillary recess and rotator interval on coronal oblique CE T1-weighted images. Patient and control groups were compared by Fisher's exact and McNemar tests in terms of signal intensity changes and contrast enhancement in the described areas. Results: Comparison of the group with AC and the control group regarding intensity changes showed a statistically significant difference in the axillary pouch (P 0.05). Comparison of AC and control groups in terms of contrast enhancement revealed statistically significant differences in the axillary pouch, rotator interval, biceps anchor and anterior–posterior capsules (P

OZET Multilocular cystic nephroma (MCN) is a rare tumor at the most benign end of the spectrum of the multilocular cystic neplasms of kidney. Nephrectomy is curative for MCN. In this case-report, we present a 16-month-old girl with a 10x15 cm multilocular cystic renal tumor extending into the renal pelvis and proximal ureter on the right side demonstrated on magnetic resonance imaging. Nephrectomy was performed. The pathology was completely consistent with MCN.

Orbital cavitary rhabdomyosarcoma has been previously reported in 2 cases. The case presented here was a 15-year-old boy who had proptosis, pain, periorbital hyperemia, and visual loss in his OD, which progressed in 6 weeks. Radiologic studies demonstrated a well-demarcated, multilobulated, large mass with cavities, extending from the anterior orbit to the apex, suggesting a diagnosis of venolymphatic malformation with an intrinsic hemorrhage. On surgery, a multilobular, hemorrhagic cystic mass was almost completely excised. Histologic examination revealed a diagnosis of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. After postoperative chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the tumor did not recur during a follow-up period of 45 months. This case, together with the previous ones, suggests that cavitary orbital rhabdomyosarcomas may have some distinct clinical, radiologic, and surgical characteristics.

Background: The reference ranges of thyroid volumes in neonates vary according to the iodine status of a specific region. In different studies, it ranged between 0.47 and 1.62 ml. It has been previously shown that Bursa city was a moderately iodine-deficient area. We therefore aimed at determining normal reference ranges of neonatal thyroid volumes in our moderately iodine-deficient area. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, thyroid volumes of 100 healthy full-term neonates (51 boys and 49 girls; mean gestational age 38.9±1.1 weeks; and mean birth-weight 3370±446 g) were measured during the first week of life using thyroid ultrasonography. These data were compared with the gestational age, birth weight, gender, and TSH values of neonates as well as with maternal factors such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, smoking, medication use, and heart disease. Results: All blood samples for TSH were taken during the first 5 days (mean 1.09±0.9 days). The mean TSH levels in all male and female neonates were 3.77±3.71, 4.57±3.61, and 2.93±3.66 mIU/l, respectively. This difference was statistically significant (p=0.006). Mean thyroid volumes for all male and female neonates were calculated as 0.82±0.18 (range 0.51-2.04), 0.84±0.21 (range 0.51–2.04), and 0.80±0.14 ml (range 0.58–1.30), respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in thyroid volumes with respect to gestational age, birth weight, gender, TSH values of neonates and maternal factors. Conclusion: Normal thyroid volumes in neonates vary between different regions. Local reference values should be used in thyroid volume assessment. Our results are in concordance with the literature and can be used as reference values for our region.

Introduction: Differential radiologic diagnosis of cystic malformations of the posterior fossa is often difficult with conventional imaging techniques because of overlapping features of these entities. Posterior fossa cystic malformations occupy the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) spaces. They may create secondary dynamic effects on the movements of CSF. The aim of this study was to investigate CSF flow alterations in posterior fossa cystic malformations with CSF flow MR imaging. Methods: The study included 40 patients with cystic malformations of the posterior fossa. The patients underwent cardiac-gated phase-contrast cine MR imaging. CSF flow was qualitatively evaluated using an in-plane phase-contrast sequence in the midsagittal plane. The MR images were displayed in a closed-loop cine format. Results: Twelve of the patients had communicating arachnoid cyst, seven had non-communicating arachnoid cyst, ten had mega cisterna magna, six had Dandy-Walker malformation, two had Dandy-Walker variant, and three had Blake's pouch cyst. CSF flow MR imaging indicated the regions of no, slow or higher flow, direction of flow, and abnormal cystic fluid motion. Each malformation displayed a distinct CSF flow pattern. Conclusion: Phase-contrast cine MR imaging for CSF flow evaluation may be a useful adjunct to routine MR imaging in the evaluation of the cystic malformations of the posterior fossa because it can improve the specificity in differentiating such malformations.

Cebocephaly is a very rare congenital anomaly combining a severe midline facial malformation and holoprosencephaly. Here we report on first case of cebocephaly with semilobar holoprosencephaly, hypotelorism, and a single nostril due to intrauterine TORCH infection (Toxoplasmosis, other [syphilis, varicella-zoster, parvovirus B19], Rubella, Cytomegalovirus [CMV], and Herpes infections) in the English language literature. Chromosomal analysis showed normal karyotyping.

We present a case with a histologically and radiologically proven surface venous hemangioma of distal thigh showing advanced periosteal reaction in distal femur. Surface hemangiomas presenting with periosteal reaction are not often encountered. When a patient complains about a soft tissue mass of an extremity, hemangioma should be included in the differential diagnosis. Optimal management includes precise clinical judgement and surgical planning, safe surgical technique and wide excision to prevent local recurrence.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term efficacy of polyurethane stent placement in adults with nasolacrimal duct obstruction. SUBJECTS AND METHODS. Polyurethane stents were placed under fluoroscopic guidance in 52 eyes of 49 patients (mean age, 43 years) with severe epiphora due to idiopathic nasolacrimal duct obstruction. The obstruction was complete in 44 eyes and partial in eight. Clinical success was defined as complete resolution of or great improvement in the symptoms of epiphora and the patency of the lacrimal system to irrigation. Mean follow-up was 23 months (range, 14-44 months). RESULTS. Stent placement was technically successful in 50 eyes (96%). The mean fluoroscopy screening time was 2.2 min (range, 0.2-5.8 min). Two patients were lost to follow-up. Clinical success was obtained in 33 (69%) of 48 eyes. Lacrimal symptoms developed in 23 (70%) of these 33 eyes at least once during the follow-up, but these patients responded well to topical drug treatment and lacrimal irrigation. External dacryocystorhinostomy was performed in 13 eyes after failure of the stents. At surgery, lacrimal sacs were shrunken, hyperemic, and fragile in all eyes, making it difficult to anastomose with nasal mucosa. Histologic examination showed granulation tissue and chronic inflammation of the sac epithelium. CONCLUSION. The success rate of the nasolacrimal stent decreases as follow-up lengthens. After stent treatment, lacrimal symptoms frequently develop, even if the stent remains patent, and require multiple office visits and therapy. The polyurethane stent may induce a chronic inflammatory response in the lacrimal sac, which can interfere with subsequent dacryocystorhinostomy.

We describe a case of neonatal osteofibrous dysplasia that was diagnosed 3 days after birth. Osteofibrous dysplasia is a fibro-osseous lesion rarely seen in long bones. It is also known as congenital osteitis fibrosa or ossifying fibroma of bones. Although it occurs in children under 10 years of age, it is extremely rare in newborn babies. It must be differentiated from adamantinoma due to their radiological appearance, predilection for tibia and fibula, clinical picture, and certain histological similarities.

Ultrasonographic (US) differential diagnosis of enlarged loops in the foetal abdomen may be inconclusive in some cases. We report a case of foetal intestinal atresia that was diagnosed with MRI. In a 32 weeks old fetus, US revealed enlarged loops filling the entire foetal abdomen which did not allow further evaluation. On MRI, the anteriorly located distended loops were hyperintense on HASTE images and hypointense on 2D FLASH images suggesting small bowel atresia. Fetus died in utero and pathology confirmed the diagnosis. MR can be used as complementary diagnostic tool in cases of enlarged loops in foetal abdomen.

Sphenoid sinus carcinomas occur rarely compared with other sinonasal tumors. A case of sphenoid sinus squamous cell carcinoma presenting with acute, isolated optic neuropathy and visual loss is presented herein along with the related literature. A 37-year-old man with sudden decrease in visual acuity in his left eye of 15 days' duration was referred. He had received high-dose intravenous corticosteroid therapy with the provisional diagnosis of retrobulbar neuritis, and his visual acuity had temporarily improved at this time. Magnetic resonance study showed a space-occupying lesion in the left posterior ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses, adjacent to the intracanalicular optic nerve, and an increase in optic nerve signal intensity. An excisional biopsy of the sphenoid lesion revealed squamous cell carcinoma. After stereotactic radiotherapy and chemotherapy following surgery, a total loss of vision and optic atrophy developed in the left eye. No other complication, tumor recurrence, or metastasis occurred during 30 months of follow-up.

The objective of this study was to prospectively quantify the fatty degeneration of supraspinatus (SSP) muscle due to SSP tendon injuries by using chemical-shift magnetic resonance imaging (CS-MRI). Forty-one patients with suspected rotator cuff tear or impingement examined with MR arthrography were included in the study. The following images were obtained after injection of diluted gadolinium chelate into glenohumeral joint: fat-saturated T1-weighted spin echo in the coronal, axial, and sagittal-oblique plane; fat-saturated T2-weighted and intermediate-weighted fast spin-echo in the coronal-oblique plane; and T1-weighted spin echo in the sagittal-oblique plane. CS-MRI was performed in the coronal plane using a double-echo fast low-angle shot (FLASH) sequence. SSP tendon changes were classified as normal, tendinosis, and partial and complete tear according to MR arthrography findings. Fatty degeneration was quantified after measurement of signal intensity values within the region of interest (ROI) placed over SSP muscle. Signal intensity (SI) suppression ratio and SI index were calculated with the values obtained. Degrees of fatty degeneration depicted in normal subjects and subjects with rotator cuff injuries were compared. Median (min:max) was used as descriptive values. SI suppression ratio was -3.5% (-15.5:3.03) in normal subjects, whereas it was -13.5% (-28.55:-6.60), -30.7% (-41.5:-20.35), and -43.75% (-62:-24.90) in tendinosis, partial and complete tears, respectively. SI index was 0.75% (-6:11.5) in normal subjects. It was 10% (4.50:27), 26.5% (19.15:35.5), and 41% (23.9:57) in tendinosis, partial and complete tears, respectively. The increase in degree of fatty degeneration parallels the seriousness of tendon pathology. CS-MRI is a useful method for grading fat accumulation within SSP muscle.

Congenital dacryocystocele can be diagnosed prenatally by imaging. Prenatal MRI is increasingly utilized for fetal diagnosis. To present the radiological and clinical features of seven fetuses with congenital dacryocystocele diagnosed with prenatal MRI. The institutional database of 1,028 consecutive prenatal MR examinations performed during a period of 4 years was reviewed retrospectively. The cases of congenital dacryocystocele were identified by reading the report of each MRI study. The incidence of dacryocystocele diagnosed with prenatal MRI was 0.7% (n = 7/1,028). The dacryocystocele was bilateral in three fetuses. Mean gestational age at the time of diagnosis was 31 weeks. The indication for prenatal MRI was the presence or the suspicion of central nervous system abnormality in six fetuses and diaphragmatic hernia in one. Dacryocystocele was associated with an intranasal cyst in six of ten eyes. Prenatal sonography revealed dacryocystocele in only two of seven fetuses. Of eight eyes with postnatal follow-up, four did not have any lacrimal symptoms. Prenatal MRI can delineate congenital dacryocystocele more clearly and in a more detailed fashion than ultrasonography. Presence of dacryocystocele was symptomatic in only 50% of our patients, supporting that prenatal diagnosis of dacryocystocele might follow a benign course.

To quantitatively evaluate vertebral bone marrow fat content and investigate its association with osteoporosis with chemical-shift magnetic resonance imaging (CS-MRI). Fifty-six female patients (age range 50-65 years) with varying bone mineral densities as documented with dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) were prospectively included in the study. According to the DXA results, the patients were grouped as normal bone density, osteopenic, or osteoporotic. In order to calculate fat content, the lumbar region was visualized in the sagittal plane by CS-MRI sequence. "Region of interest" (ROI)s were placed within L3 vertebral bodies and air (our reference point) at different time points by different radiologists. Fat content was calculated through "signal intensity (SI) suppression rate" and "SI Index". The quantitative values were compared statistically with those obtained from DXA examinations. Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for comparisons between groups. The reliability of the measurements performed by two radiologists was evaluated with the "intraclass correlation coefficient". This study was approved by an institutional review board and all participants provided informed consent to participate in the study. Eighteen subjects with normal bone density (mean T score, 0.39 +/- 1.3 [standard deviation]), 20 subjects with osteopenia (mean T score, -1.79 +/- 0.38), and 18 subjects with osteoporosis (mean T score, -3 +/- 0.5) were determined according to DXA results. The median age was 55.9 (age range 50-64 years) in the normal group, 55.5 (age range 50-64 years) in the osteopenic group, and 55.1 (age range 50-65 years) in the osteoporotic group (p = 0.872). In the CS-MRI examination, the values of "SI suppression ratio" and "SI Index" (median [min:max]) were calculated by the first and second reader, independently. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups with regard to vertebral bone marrow fat content (p > 0.05). According to the "intraclass correlation coefficient", the measurements were reliable (0.55 and 0.60). Vertebral bone marrow fat content calculated with CS-MRI is not a reliable parameter for predicting bone mineral density in female patients aged between 50 and 65 years.

A 23-year-old woman presented with clinical symptoms suggestive of acute dacryocystitis. She had no history of epiphora, and her lacrimal drainage system was patent on irrigation. CT findings were consistent with anterior ethmoiditis and maxillary sinusitis. Although the symptoms responded to antibiotic treatment, they recurred 2 times within the following 5 months. During the last episode, a complete obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct developed. The condition did not recur after external dacryocystorhinostomy and anterior ethmoidectomy during a follow-up of 21 months. Ethmoiditis may rarely cause a localized infection in the lacrimal sac region mimicking dacryocystitis. Recurrent infections may progress to complete obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct.

We present a case of Kniest dysplasia, a rare form of the type II collagenopathies, with prenatal MRI. Sonography revealed only short limbs in the fetus. Fetal MRI findings included enlarged hyaline cartilaginous structures with abnormally high T2 signal intensity, delayed ossification of the pubic and ischial bones, and platyspondyly. By delineating the cartilaginous abnormalities, fetal MRI can contribute to the prenatal diagnosis of chondrodysplasias.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced MRI using the subtraction technique in the detection of active sacroiliitis. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 8 asymptomatic volunteers and 50 patients with clinically suspected active sacroiliitis. On precontrast MR images, T1-weighted spin-echo images with and without fat saturation (T1WFS and T1W), STIR and 3D-FLASH images with fat saturation were obtained in the semicoronal plane using a 1.5 Tesla imager. Postcontrast MRI was performed using the same T1WFS sequence as before contrast injection for all volunteers and patients. Postcontrast images were subtracted from fat-suppressed precontrast images. Enhancement within the joint space and bone marrow was considered to demonstrate active sacroiliitis. In 50 patients (100 sacroiliac joints [SIJs]), 40 (76 SIJs) were considered to have active sacroiliitis based on MR images. Bone marrow edema was present in 33 patients (62 SIJs) on STIR images. Routine MRI allowed identification of contrast enhancement in SIJs on postcontrast T1WFS images in 31 patients (49 SIJs). Contrast enhancement was observed in 40 patients (76 SIJs) who were examined by MRI using the subtraction technique. Contrast enhancement was significantly more conspicuous on subtraction images than on non-subtracted postcontrast T1WFS images (Mann-Whitney U test, paEuro dagger < aEuro dagger 0.001). Contrast-enhanced MRI with subtraction technique may be useful for early detection of active sacroiliitis.

Purpose To evaluate morphologic changes occurring in the retrobulbar region after optic nerve sheath decompression (ONSD) in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Design Prospective observational study. Methods This study included 26 eyes of 17 patients (age range, nine to 57 years) with idiopathic intracranial hypertension who underwent ONSD. The surgery was performed through transconjunctival medial orbitotomy and by a dural window excision. After ONSD, the optic nerves were examined with MR imaging by means of 3-dimensional “constructive interference in steady state” (CISS) sequence. Results After ONSD, papilledema resolved in all eyes and visual functions improved in all except one. Early postoperative MR imaging (two to eight weeks after surgery) demonstrated a cyst-like fluid collection adjacent to the dural window site in nine (75%) of 12 eyes and a fibrous tissue formation in three eyes (25%). Late postoperative MR imaging (six to 15 months after surgery) demonstrated a fibrous tissue formation at the decompression site in 25 eyes (96%) and perioptic fluid collection in one eye (4%). Conclusions In early postoperative period after ONSD, a fluid collection adjacent to the decompression site occurs in most eyes; this finding disappears in late period. Early postoperative MR findings support the idea that ONSD functions through the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) filtration.

Polyarteritis nodosa is a multisystem disease primarily involving the small and medium-sized vessels. Prognosis depends on the presence and severity of visceral involvement. Thrombosis and aneurysm formation commonly occur in kidney and gastrointestinal tract. Although hepatic involvement is also common, hepatic aneurysmal rupture with intrahepatic or perihepatic hematoma formation is infrequent. Hemobilia secondary to aneurysmal rupture is a very rare condition. We present a case of polyarteritis nodosa accompanied by hemobilia and intestinal hemorrhage secondary to hepatic and mesenteric aneurysmal rupture.

OBJECTIVE. ne purpose of this study was to assess the advantages of the image subtraction technique in chemical shift MRI for the differentiation of adrenal adenomas from nonadenomas. SUBJECTS AND METHODS. Thirty-five patients with 42 adrenal masses (eight metastases and 34 nonfunctioning adenomas) underwent chemical shift MRI using a double-echo fast low-angle shot sequence. Subsequently, opposed-phase chemical shift MR images were subtracted from in-phase images, The subtraction images were assessed quantitatively and qualitatively. For quantitative assessment, the signal intensity values of the adrenal masses were measured by one investigator with manually defined regions of interest. Qualitative assessment of the subtraction images was performed independently by two investigators, who reported their confidence in diagnosing adenomas versus nonadenomas based on signal intensity of the adrenal masses on subtraction images. RESULTS. The mean signal intensities were significantly different between adenomas and metastases on subtraction images (213 vs 18: p < 0.0001). There was no overlap in signal intensities between adenomas and metastatic tumors, The accuracy in distinguishing adenomas from metastatic tumors was 100% if the cutoff value of the signal intensity selected was 36-106. Quantitative results corresponding to 100% specificity were also observed, with similar sensitivity. No difference in interpretation between the two investigators occurred. CONCLUSION. Chemical shift subtraction MRI provides a high confidence level in distinguishing adrenal adenomas from adrenal metastases. The image subtraction technique also facilitates quantitative and qualitative evaluation of adrenal masses in chemical shift MRI.

Neurocutaneous melanosis (NCM) is rare and is characterized by the proliferation of melanocytes in the central nervous system. A 6-day-old infant boy was referred to our department with giant congenital melanocytic nevi and convulsions. On physical examination the patient had a giant black-brown pigmented nevus covering his face, neck, scalp, shoulders, back, chest, and abdomen. Numerous satellite lesions were noted on the face, neck, and upper extremities. In the right bulbar conjunctiva, a brown plaque was present. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed hyperintense areas in the brain on short repetition time/short echo time sequences, compatible with intraparenchymal melanin deposits. No leptomeningeal abnormality was seen. Further investigation also revealed agenesis of the right kidney and transposition of the great arteries. Transposition of the great arteries, which has never been reported in NCM, may be an incidental finding. We present a case of NCM associated with agenesis of the right kidney and transposition of the great arteries.

Objective To evaluate the nasolacrimal ostium created after successful external dacryocystorhinostomy. Methods This prospective study included 41 successful primary external dacryocystorhinostomies performed in 41 patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction (33 women and 8 men; age range, 19-75 years). The dimensions of osteotomy were measured during surgery. Patients alternately underwent either anterior only or anterior and posterior flap anastomosis between the lacrimal sac and the nasal mucosa. Digital subtraction macrodacryocystography was performed to assess the nasolacrimal ostium 6 months after surgery. Results Dacryocystography showed that the lacrimal sac had re-formed in 40 (98%) of 41 patients. The nasolacrimal ostium was located at the inferior part of the re-formed sac in 37 patients (90%) and at the middle part of the re-formed sac in 3 patients (7%). Mean ostium heights were 3.8 mm (range, 1.6-6.5 mm) in patients who underwent anterior flap anastomosis and 3.1 mm (range, 1.2-5.2 mm) in those who underwent both anterior and posterior flap anastomosis (P= .22). Ostium height did not correlate with osteotomy size (mean, 183 mm 2 ; range, 132-266 mm 2 ; P = .10). Conclusions This study confirms that after successful dacryocystorhinostomy, the nasolacrimal anastomosis contracts into a relatively small ostium. Contrary to common belief, the lacrimal sac often re-forms after surgery. The final ostium frequently develops at the inferior part of the regenerated sac. Suturing the posterior lacrimal and nasal flaps in addition to the anterior flaps does not significantly affect the ultimate ostium size.

A 28-year-old man presented with proptosis and medial displacement of the right eye, intermittent pain, and diplopia of 1 month's duration. Radiologic examination demonstrated a mass in the right lateral orbit resembling an aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC). Histopathologic evaluation of the surgically excised lesion via orbitotomy confirmed the radiologic diagnosis. Two months later, the patient presented again with a mass at the same location as the previous one, with a major component that was solid. The recurrent lesion was excised via frontal craniotomy. Histopathologic examination of the surgical specimen led to a diagnosis of ABC secondary to trabecular ossifying fibroma. During the follow up of 13 months, the lesion did not recur. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first case of ABC secondary to ossifying fibroma in the orbit. ABC can dominate the radiologic appearance of the lesion and veil the primary neoplasm.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of polyurethane nasolacrimal duct stents in the treatment of epiphora resulting from primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction in adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 25 patients (21 women and four men with mean age of 44 years, range 20 to 74 years) with nasolacrimal duct obstruction, 28 hollow polyurethane stents designed by Song and associates were placed under fluoroscopic guidance. The obstruction was complete in 20 lacrimal drainage systems and partial in eight. The lacrimal sac size was normal or large on dacryocystogram in all lacrimal drainage systems. A Ritleng probe was introduced through the upper punctum and advanced past the obstruction. A guide wire with a flexible tip was then introduced through the probe, over which the stent was advanced in retrograde fashion and placed into the lacrimal sac and nasolacrimal duct. Clinical success was defined by the demonstration of a completely patent lacrimal drainage pathway through saline irrigation and no or minimal complaint of epiphora. RESULTS: Stent placement was technically successful in 26 of 28 lacrimal drainage systems (93%). The mean time of fluoroscopy screening was 3.2 minutes (range, 1.4 to 5.8 minutes). The overall success rate was 82% (23 of 28 lacrimal drainage systems). Two stents were completely occluded. In one lacrimal drainage system with minimal epiphora, the stented drainage pathway was partially occluded. The patients were followed up from 4 to 22 months (mean, 7.2 months). CONCLUSIONS: Retrograde placement of a hollow polyurethane nasolacrimal duct stent is a technique that is simple and well tolerated by patients. This method achieves a high success rate and may be suggested as a nonsurgical procedure for adults with primary nasolacrimal duct obstruction and proper lacrimal sac size. The Ritleng probe facilitates the procedure.

Aims—To determine the eYcacy of dacryocystoplasty with balloon dilatation in the treatment of complete and partial obstruction of the lacrimal drainage system. Methods—The procedure was performed on 26 patients with epiphora due to complete (n=16) or partial (n=10) obstruction of the lacrimal drainage system. A flexible tipped guide wire was introduced through the superior canaliculus into the inferior meatus and manipulated out of the nasal cavity. A 3 mm balloon was then introduced in a retrograde direction over the guide wire and dilated at the obstruction site. Results—The procedure was technically successful in all patients with partial obstruction, but unsuccessful in four of 16 cases with complete obstruction. Reobstruction occurred in eight of 12 patients with complete obstruction, and in five of 10 patients with partial obstruction. The overall success rate was 25% for complete and 50% for partial obstructions. The mean follow up was 14 months (8‐37 months). Conclusion—Although the balloon dacryocystoplasty is a simple and minimally invasive technique, the outcome from our study indicates that it is not advisable for treatment of complete obstruction of the lacrimal drainage system. Balloon dilatation may prove suitable for the treatment of patients with partial obstruction below the level of the lacrimal sac, especially in those who are poor candidates for surgery, or who do not wish to undertake dacryocystorhinostomy. Even in the partial obstruction group the success rate was only 50%, so that further modification to the technique and controlled studies are likely to be required before it could be recommended for general use. (Br J Ophthalmol 1999;83:692‐696)