Search

Andrzej Sieśkiewicz,1 Bartosz Piszczatowski,1 Joanna Reszeć,2 Michał Sieśkiewicz,3 Zuzanna Micun,3 Joanna Konopińska4 1Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of Bialystok, Białystok, Poland; 2Department of Medical Pathomorphology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; 3Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland; 4Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Bialystok, Białystok, PolandCorrespondence: Joanna Konopińska, Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Sklodowska-Curie 24A Street, Białystok, 15-276, Poland, Tel/Fax +48 600471666, Email joannakonopinska@o2.plPurpose: The main challenge in maintaining long-term success of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy is preventing fibrosis and scarring at the anastomosis site. Despite numerous studies on surgical techniques, research on histological factors linked to postoperative scarring is limited. This study evaluated long-term (range, 12– 18 months) outcomes and systematically examined clinical and histopathological factors that may contribute to restenosis.Patients and Methods: This retrospective study included 47 patients who underwent a unilateral surgery intervention for primary acquired lacrimal duct obstruction. The following clinical and histopathological variables were considered to assess the risk factors for the development of restenosis: sex, age, duration of disease, clinical manifestation of disease, clinical features of the lacrimal sac perceived intraoperatively, fibrosis, and mononuclear cell infiltrates.Results: Statistical analysis showed that only patient sex (Pearson’s chi-squared test, p = 0.007) and severity of intraoperative adhesions in the lacrimal sac (Pearson’s chi-square test, p = 0.029) were significantly linked to restenosis. However, the skewed male-to-female ratio, few surgical failures make the conclusion that sex is a risk factor speculative. Thus, only adhesion intensity can be considered a risk factor. Additionally, fibrosis assessed using trichrome staining and T-cell lymphocytic infiltration showed potential negative prognostic value in a larger cohort.Conclusion: Our findings indicate that patients with significant lacrimal sac adhesions, identified during endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy, are particularly prone to postoperative restenosis. Although histological and immunohistochemical studies did not reveal a correlation between the analyzed data and restenosis, a larger patient cohort might show that fibrosis and T-cell lymphocytic infiltration could potentially have a negative prognostic value. The poorer treatment outcomes in women, seen in our study as well as in other investigations, may be due to anatomical and physiological traits of the female lacrimal drainage system that predispose them to stenosis. This hypothesis requires further study in a larger cohort.Keywords: fibrosis, lacrimal sac, restenosis, tearing

AIM: To report the clinical profile, endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (En-DCR) management, and acute dacryocystitis (AD) outcomes in China. METHODS: Clinical data of 554 adult AD patients (554 eyes) who presented in 7 tertiary eye care centers for 10y from Jan 2010 to Mar 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical profile, En-DCR management, and outcomes of all cases were recorded. The anatomical and functional success were evaluated for 12mo post-operation. RESULTS: The analysis included 149 males and 368 females with a median age of 55.2y (range: 18-84y). There were 459 eyes with a history of epiphora or purulent secretion. The time between a symptom of lacrimal duct obstruction and acute onset was 1 to 540 (66.1±58.2)mo. Fifty-nine eyes had a history of the previous acute attack. Seventy-four eyes developed a cutaneous fistula, while 11 eyes had post septal cellulitis pre-operation. En-DCR with an anatomical success of 91.7% and functional success of 90.1%. The success rate of the patients with a history of acute episodes and the preoperative fistula was lower than the overall success rates. CONCLUSION: En-DCR can be performed during an acute episode in AD with a success rate of over 90%.

Lacrimal sac tumors are rare with epithelial tumors being the most common type. Melanoma of the lacrimal sac is an exceptional finding. Few cases have been reported so far in the literature. We report the case of a sixth year old male, with no pathological background, who was referred to the hospital for chronic dacryocystitis resistant to treatment. Computed tomography dacryocystography and magnetic resonance imaging were performed, in favor of a large mass of the lacrimal sac and lacrimal canal suggestive of melanoma. Biopsy confirmed the diagnosis. PET-CT was positive and showed abnormal activity in the lung, liver and bones, in favor of metastasis.

A 47-year-old female developed a reddish swelling of the right medial canthus over 3 months. On examination, a red, firm mass, involving the right medial canthal and extending into the inferior fornix was present and the globe was displaced upwards and inwards. A staging MRI scan confirmed a lacrimal sac lesion with anterior orbit extension. After an equivocal biopsy, the patient underwent debulking surgery. Histology showed a lacrimal sac invasive adenosquamous carcinoma, comprising poorly differentiated squamous carcinoma and invasive adenocarcinoma areas arranged in a tubulo-glandular pattern. The adenocarcinoma harboured numerous cilia. p16 showed block positivity of both components and micro-dissected tissue from both areas showed the presence of HPV16 DNA by PCR. This is the first description of ciliated adenosquamous carcinoma of the lacrimal sac and this finding is placed into the context of what is known about ciliated head and neck adenosquamous carcinomas and the role of high-risk HPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To report a rare case of a pediatric dacryolith masquerading as congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO). Observations: A two-year-old male child presented with history of intermittent epiphora and discharge since the age of six months. Clinical evaluation demonstrated raised tear meniscus height and delayed fluorescein dye disappearance test in the right eye. Lacrimal irrigation of the right eye under general anesthesia demonstrated 90 % regurgitation (subjectively) of mucoid fluid with a hard stop. Nasal endoscopy examination demonstrated a dacryolith obstructing the opening of the nasolacrimal duct (NLD) in the inferior meatus. The dacryolith was teased out of the NLD and following its removal the lacrimal irrigation was freely patent. At six-months post operative follow up, epiphora resolved and the child was asymptomatic. Conclusions and importance: While cases of canaliculitis is uncommon in pediatric age group, it is rare to find a NLD dacryolith in a toddler. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there are few prior reports on pediatric NLD dacryolith masquerading as CNLDO in a toddler (1–3 years).

Purpose Methods Results Conclusions The purpose of this study is to describe a simplified, less invasive dacryocystotomy technique that allows for complete inspection of the canine lacrimal sac and to retrospectively evaluate this surgical technique in a larger series of dogs. The anatomical background of the canine nasolacrimal system is described as a basis for the surgical technique.Records of dogs from 2003 to 2023 which were diagnosed with dacryocystitis due to presumed foreign body and underwent surgical exploration and removal of foreign bodies within the lacrimal sac using this technique were reviewed. Postoperative treatment and outcome were evaluated.Records of 48 dogs were included. A foreign body was discovered during the surgery or upon retrieval of the catheter in 85% of cases (41/48). An indwelling catheter was placed in 83% of cases (40/48) for a median of 21 days. At the last recheck, the nasolacrimal duct was patent in 87% of the cases (41/47). The median follow‐up time was 34 days (3–1255 days). The most commonly affected breeds were Golden retrievers (11) and dachshunds (8). The following complications occurred: two dogs removed or partly removed the catheter themselves (day 7, day 14), and one dog showed marked irritation at the catheter site which had to be removed by day 10.The transconjunctival dacryocystotomy technique is simple and less invasive than other described techniques with a successful long‐term outcome in the majority of cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical usefulness of digital radiography dacryocystography in patients with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction prior to endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy. Methods: All dacryocystography images from 129 patients with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction were analyzed. Each group was assessed for postoperative epiphora severity using Munk's score via telephone follow-up three years post-surgery. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was plotted to obtain a suitable cutoff value of the transverse diameter of the lacrimal sac (LS), used to categorize LS size into small (≤4.350 mm) and large (>4.350 mm). Results: Analysis of the transverse diameter of the LS among 129 patients showed a negative correlation between it and Munk's score (r = -0.282, p = 0.001). There was a statistical difference between the surgical outcomes and the sizes of the LS (p = 0.041). The ROC curve analysis showed that the transverse diameter of the LS at 4.350 mm was the ideal cutoff value for the outcome of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy, with a sensitivity of 42.2 %, and specificity of 92.3 %. After adjusting for the age and sex, the small LS was associated with an increased risk of postoperative failed outcome (adjusted odds ratio [95 % CI]: 8.628 [1.074, 69.335]). Conclusion: The small LS was independently associated with the failed surgical outcome. Furthermore, the preoperative measurement of the LS transverse diameter serves as one of the reliable predictors for postoperative epiphora severity.

The external dacryocystorhinostomy (Ex-DCR) is a reliable but surgically challenging procedure to overcome a nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO). The aim of this study is to describe the outcomes of a modified technique of lacrimal sac opening and to compare it with the conventional Ex-DCR. This comparative cohort study included adult patients undergoing Ex-DCR for primary acquired NLDO by or under supervision of one surgeon. Group 1 (conventional Ex-DCR including H-shaped incision, anastomosis of the anterior mucosal flap to nasal mucosal flap and resection of the posterior sac flap) was compared with Group 2 (modified Ex-DCR including excision of the medial lacrimal sac and anastomosis of remaining anterior sac flap to nasal mucosal flap). Outcome measures included the success rate (defined as complete symptom relief or patent irrigation after three months), reoperation rate, redo-free survival within five years, and occurrence of postoperative bleeding and postoperative infection. 138 patients were included. The success rates were 94.7% (54/57 cases) for Group 1 and 96.3% (78/81) for Group 2 (p-value = 0.658). The redo-rate was 5.3% (3/75) in Group 1 and 2.5% (2/81) in Group 2 (p = 0.331). Two-year redo-free survival probability estimates were 89.8% for Group 1 and 96.3% for Group 2, respectively. No complications occurred in Group 2, whereas in Group 1, one patient (1.8%) suffered from postoperative bleeding and one (1.8%) from postoperative infection. This study showed that our modified Ex-DCR technique is equally efficacious compared with the conventional Ex-DCR technique in adult patients with NLDO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a rare case of a lacrimal sac angioleiomyoma. A 56-year-old woman complained of pain in the right medial canthal region over a period of 2 years. There were no complaints of epiphora or ocular infection, and no visible or palpable masses in the medial canthal region. Computed tomography scan revealed a solid tumor of the lacrimal sac expanding to the nasolacrimal duct and protruding under the inferior turbinate. The tumor was removed by external dacryocystectomy combined with endonasal, endoscopic anterior turbinectomy, and nasal mucosal resection. Histological and immunohistological findings were consistent with an angioleiomyoma of the venous type. There was no recurrence of the tumor at the three-year follow-up. Angioleiomyomas should be included in the differential diagnosis of lacrimal sac tumors. The definitive diagnoses rely on histology and immunohistological reactions. The treatment is complete surgical resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the dynamic viscosity of the lacrimal sac wall in patients with various origins of lacrimal duct obstruction. Methods: The study was performed in 35 cases: 21 cases with primary nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) and 14 cases with secondary nasolacrimal duct obstruction after radioiodine therapy (SALDO). The study of biomechanical properties of the lacrimal sac was carried out using a test bench. The principle of the study was to indent the sample at a given speed and record the data obtained from the sensor of the force transmitted to the sample. The area under the curve (AUC) and the peak viscosity were calculated. A qualitative characteristic of the obtained curve was given. Results: Median AUC in patients with PANDO was 17 × 106 [6 × 106; 19 × 106] N/m2 × s, in patients with SALDO 21 × 106 [13 × 106; 25 × 106] N/m2 × s. Intergroup differences were statistically significant (p = 0,048). The median peak viscosity in PANDO patients was 29 × 106 [25 × 106; 35 × 106] N/m2, in patients with SALDO 32 × 106 [21 × 106; 41 × 106] N/m2. The qualitative characteristics of the obtained curves differed. Conclusion: Biomechanical properties of the lacrimal sac may vary depending on the cause of obliteration of the lacrimal ducts. The integrated dynamic viscosity is significantly higher in SALDO patients due to exposure to radioiodine compared to that in PANDO patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is an ophthalmic surgical procedure for relieving obstruction from chronically inflamed nasolacrimal duct (chronic dacryocystitis). This study was performed to observe the surgical outcome of DCR in patients with chronic dacryocystitis; to grade the inflammation in lacrimal sac biopsies, using the chronic inflammatory score (CIS); and to correlate the CIS with the surgical outcome. Methods: Twenty-five patients with chronic dacryocystitis underwent DCR with lacrimal sac biopsies. The biopsies were examined microscopically, and a CIS score was assigned and graded into mild, moderate and severe. The patients were followed up. The success of DCR was evaluated at 6 months post-surgery, by syringing of the lacrimal tract. Results: The mean age of the patients was 37.76 years±12.32 SD. The mean duration of watering of the eye was 2.9 years±3.18 years. The right eye was involved in 60% and 80% of the patients were females. Severe inflammation was reported in 72%, moderate angiogenesis in 76% and moderate fibrosis in 72%, squamous metaplasia in 40%, and a reduced number of goblet cells in 72% of the biopsies. CIS was severe in 72% of the patients. At 6 months follow-up, 96% of the patients had a successful DCR. Conclusion: Although the chronic inflammatory score was severe, the DCR was successful in most of the patients, suggesting that the success of the surgical procedure is not related to the degree of inflammation. Large-scale studies are recommended for confirmation of our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: It is important to stain acid‐fact bacilli on the smear of abscess puncture in addition to Gram stain to detect nontuberculous and tuberculous mycobacteria in the early phase since both can cause rare and challenging extrapulmonary manifestations. A 56‐year‐old otherwise healthy woman developed abscess from dacryocystitis in the right lower eyelid. The smear of puncture fluid showed acid‐fast bacilli and Mycobacterium abscessus was identified after a month. The early start of clarithromycin/ethambutol was switched to clarithromycin/levofloxacin. Debridement specimen after 7‐month treatment showed granulomatous tissue with no bacilli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amyloidosis involving the lacrimal sac is extremely rare. In this study, we demonstrated a rare case of localized light chain amyloidosis in the lacrimal sac region. The lacrimal sac lesion presented as infiltrative with bony erosion. Given the slow growth of the lesion and the absence of a blood flow signal inside, we concluded that the lesion was less likely to be malignant. Complete removal of the lacrimal sac lesion combined with simultaneous lacrimal passage reconstruction was performed. The diagnosis of light chain amyloidosis was confirmed by histology. The surgical results were favorable, and no recurrence was observed over one-year follow-up. Our case report enriches the understanding of amyloid deposition in the ocular adnexa.

AIM: To observe the imaging features of color Doppler ultrasound (CDU) and computed tomography (CT) or computed tomography dacryocystography (CT-DCG) in different types of lacrimal sac space-occupying lesions (SOLs). METHODS: This retrospective case series study included 21 patients with lacrimal sac SOLs who underwent lacrimal sac surgery between January 2018 and March 2022. The imaging features of CDU and CT or CT-DCG in these patients were extracted from the examination cloud system. The images were observed and analyzed. RESULTS: The detection rate of lacrimal SOLs between CDU (21/21, 100%) and CT or CT-DCG (20/21, 95.2%) had no statistically significant difference (P=1.0). CDU could detect the blood flow signals in all SOLs except mucocele and mucopeptide concretion. Among them, polyps had characteristic imaging changes on CDU and CT-DCG. The mucoceles and mucopeptide concretions had characteristic imaging changes on CDU, which could provide more information for differential diagnosis. CONCLUSION: The morphology and internal blood flow signals of lacrimal sac SOLs can be observed using CDU. CT or CT-DCG has advantages in observing structural damage around the lacrimal sac mass. Therefore, CDU may be used as a routine examination to exclude lacrimal sac SOLs before dacryocystorhinostomy in the absence of preoperative CT or CT-DCG.

Key Clinical Message It is important to stain acid‐fact bacilli on the smear of abscess puncture in addition to Gram stain to detect nontuberculous and tuberculous mycobacteria in the early phase since both can cause rare and challenging extrapulmonary manifestations. Abstract A 56‐year‐old otherwise healthy woman developed abscess from dacryocystitis in the right lower eyelid. The smear of puncture fluid showed acid‐fast bacilli and Mycobacterium abscessus was identified after a month. The early start of clarithromycin/ethambutol was switched to clarithromycin/levofloxacin. Debridement specimen after 7‐month treatment showed granulomatous tissue with no bacilli.

Alternaria is a fungal genus that can cause opportunistic human infection in immunocompromised hosts. While the majority of clinical manifestations are cutaneous or subcutaneous infections, there are reports of oculomycosis, which is most commonly present as keratomycosis or endophthalmitis.Here, we present a rare case of Alternaria dacryocystitis with cutaneous fistula in a diabetic patient. The patient was referred with a non-healing medial canthal wound and an initial biopsy report showing “ruptured hair follicle;” re-examination of the biopsy specimen with fungal stains led to the diagnosis of alternariosis. The patient underwent surgical debridement and systemic antifungal treatment, with complete resolution of the infection. In order to initiate prompt treatment and prevent invasive disease, fungal infection should be considered in an immunocompromised patient with chronic dacryocystitis and cutaneous fistula or a nonhealing medial canthus wound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim was to clarify the distributions of bacteria in the conjunctival sac and lacrimal sac in patients with chronic dacryocystitis. Methods: In total, 297 (322 eyes) chronic dacryocystitis patients who underwent nasal endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (EN-DCR) were included. Conjunctival sac secretions from the affected eye were collected preoperatively, and lacrimal sac retention fluid from the affected side in the same patient was collected intraoperatively. Bacterial culture and drug sensitivity testing were performed to determine bacterial distributions. Results: In total, 127 bacterial isolates (49 species) were detected in 123 eyes in the conjunctival group, with a positivity rate of 38.2% (123/322); 85 bacterial isolates (30 species) were detected in 85 eyes in the lacrimal sac group, with a positivity rate of 26.4% (85/322). The positivity rates were significantly different (P = 0.001) between two groups. The gram-negative bacilli proportion in the lacrimal sac group (36/85, 42.4%) was significantly higher than that in the conjunctival sac group (37/127, 29.2%) (P = 0.047). Positive conjunctival sac secretion culture (123/322) was significantly associated with increased ocular secretion (281/322, 87.3%) (P = 0.002). Among the culture-positive bacteria in the conjunctival sac group and the lacrimal sac group, 30/127, 23.6% and 43/127, 26.7% and 21/85, 24.7% and 20/85, 23.5% were resistant to levofloxacin and tobramycin, respectively. Conclusions: This study illustrated differences in bacterial distributions between conjunctival sac secretions and retained lacrimal sac fluid in chronic dacryocystitis patients, with a higher proportion of gram-negative bacilli in lacrimal sac secretions. The ocular surface flora in chronic dacryocystitis patients is partially resistant to levofloxacin and tobramycin, which need to be considered by ophthalmologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jutaro Nakamura,1,2 Tomoyuki Kamao,1 Arisa Mitani,1 Nobuhisa Mizuki,2 Atsushi Shiraishi1 1Department of Ophthalmology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan; 2Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, JapanCorrespondence: Jutaro Nakamura, Department of Ophthalmology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan, Tel +8189-960-5361, Fax +8189-960-5364, Email jutaro_n@yokohama-cu.ac.jpPurpose: This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the lacrimal syringing test (syringing) in relation to dacryocystography (DCG) and dacryoendoscopy (DE) in lacrimal pathway (LP) obstruction.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 101 patients (188 LPs) who underwent syringing, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)-DCG, and DE to diagnose the degree and site of LP obstruction. The degree of obstruction was classified into patent, partial obstruction, and complete obstruction. The degree of LP obstruction was determined by combining the findings of DE and CBCT-DCG and was designated as DCG+DE. When differentiating complete or partial obstruction on DE was uncertain, complete or partial obstruction was assigned if the DCG showed evidence of contrast media obstruction or passage, respectively. The consistency between syringing and DCG+DE was evaluated by calculating the weighted kappa coefficient.Results: The sensitivity and specificity of syringing were 94% and 89%, respectively. The weighted Cohen’s kappa value of agreement between syringing and DCG+DE was κ = 0.73 (SE = 0.04, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.66– 0.80, p < 0.01). When divided into presaccal and postsaccal obstruction categories, the kappa values were κ = 0.40 (SE = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.19– 0.62, p < 0.01) and 0.55 (SE = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.37– 0.73, p < 0.01), respectively. Furthermore, when limited to common canaliculus obstruction (stenoses), which accounted for 78% (46 LPs) of the total presaccal obstructions, the kappa value was κ = 0.29 (SE = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.05– 0.54, p = 0.021), which demonstrated the lowest consistency between syringing and DCG+DE.Conclusion: Syringing was “substantially” in agreement with DCG+DE in detecting the degree of LP obstruction. Moreover, syringing was a sufficiently sensitive and specific test when performed by an experienced clinician. However, distinguishing between complete and partial obstructions by syringing was sometimes difficult, particularly in the common canaliculus obstruction (stenosis).Keywords: epiphora, nasolacrimal duct, lacrimal passage obstruction, stenosis, lacrimal drainage system, lacrimal sac, lacrimal syringing, irrigation, dacryocystography, dacryoendoscopy, weighted kappa coefficient

Peripunctal squamous cell carcinomas with canalicular infiltration are a rare clinical entity. Although there are universal guidelines on achieving margin clearance for excision of an eyelid tumor, literature is scarce on achieving the same while dealing with the lacrimal drainage system. The present case describes the management of a rare case of squamous cell carcinoma with secondary extension into the proximal lacrimal system. The surgery was performed with intraoperative frozen section guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) associated dacryocystic retention presents with an acute swelling in the lacrimal sac area with epiphora and lymphadenopathy. The patient would usually have a preceding history of infectious mononucleosis with clinical features of fever, pharyngitis, preauricular and cervical lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly, subclinical hepatitis, nausea, and palatine petechiae. The present case is of a 3-year-old child who presented with a sudden painless swelling in the lacrimal sac region with epiphora. Investigations and a biopsy helped in establishing the diagnosis of EBV-associated dacryocystic retention which resolved completely with conservative management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Obstruction of the lacrimal drainage represents a common ophthalmologic issue. The blockage may interest any level of the lacrimal drainage pathway, and it is important to find the site of obstruction to plan the most appropriate treatment. In this study, findings from magnetic resonance (MR) dacryocystography were compared with findings from endoscopic and surgical procedures to evaluate the accuracy of MR dacryocystography in localizing the site of nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Methods: We enrolled twenty-one patients with clinical suspicion of nasolacrimal duct obstruction who underwent dacryoendoscopy and surgery. MR dacryocystography was performed with a heavily T2-weighted fast spin echo sequence in the coronal planes. Before the MRI was performed, a sterile 0.9% NaCl solution was administered into both conjunctival sacs. For each examination, two independent readers (with 8 and 10 years of experience in head and neck imaging) evaluated both heavily 3D space T2-weighted and STIR sequences. Results: Stenosis/obstruction of nasolacrimal duct or lacrimal sac was diagnosed in all 21 patients who underwent MRI dacryocystography. In particular, the site of the obstruction was classified as lacrimal sac in 12 (57%) patients, nasolacrimal duct in 6 (29%) patients, and canaliculi in 3 (14%) patients by both readers. By comparison with the evidence resulting from the endoscopy, there were differences between MRI dacryocystography and dacryoendoscopy in the evaluation of the obstruction's site in three patients, with an overall accuracy of 85.7%. Conclusion: MR dacryocystography allows a non-invasive evaluation of the lacrimal drainage pathway, valid for the planning of the most appropriate treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucopeptide concretions, previously called dacryoliths, are macroscopic stones that commonly obstruct the lacrimal sac. The mechanism behind dacryolithiasis remains unclear; however, the involvement of various immune cells, including neutrophils, has been confirmed. These findings remain limited, and no information on neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), essentially involved in the pathogenesis of other lithiases, is available yet. Here, we employ microcomputed tomography, magnetic resonance tomography, histochemistry, mass spectrometry, and enzyme activity analyses to investigate the role of neutrophils and NETs in dacryolithiasis. We classify mucopeptide concretions into three types, with respect to the quantity of cellular and acellular material, polysaccharides, and mucosubstances. We propose the role of neutrophils and NETs within the existing model of gradual formation and growth of mucopeptide concretions, with neutrophils contributing to the initial stages of dacryolithiasis, as they localized on the inner (older) parts of the tissue. As NETs localized on the outer (newer) parts of the tissue, we link their role to the late stages of dacryolithiasis, presumably maintaining the proinflammatory environment and preventing efficient clearance. An abundance of IgG on the surface indicates the involvement of the adaptive immune system later as well. These findings bring new perspectives on dacryolithiasis, in which the innate and adaptive immune system are essentially involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foreign objects sometimes enter the lacrimal sac. Here, we report the case of a patient with many comb-shaped eyelashes in the lacrimal sac and discuss the potential of using dacryoendoscopy to detect and remove foreign bodies from the lacrimal apparatus. A 65-year-old woman with a teary eye underwent dacryoendoscopy. There was no abnormality in the canaliculi. The internal ostium was blocked by a large number of black, comb-shaped eyelashes. Numerous bunched eyelashes covered with small white debris were found in the upper part of the lacrimal sac. No eyelash bundles were present from the lower lacrimal sac to the nasolacrimal duct, and the mucosa was normal. The saline was able to pass through; however, the lower part of the nasolacrimal duct was narrowed into a funnel shape. We widened it with a sheath while observing the endoscopy images. Eyelashes were flushed from the lacrimal sac through the nasolacrimal duct using the sheath and saline flow. A lacrimal tube was placed for 2 months and removed, and then the patient healed without dacryocystorhinostomy.

Foreign objects sometimes enter the lacrimal sac. Here, we report the case of a patient with many comb-shaped eyelashes in the lacrimal sac and discuss the potential of using dacryoendoscopy to detect and remove foreign bodies from the lacrimal apparatus. A 65-year-old woman with a teary eye underwent dacryoendoscopy. There was no abnormality in the canaliculi. The internal ostium was blocked by a large number of black, comb-shaped eyelashes. Numerous bunched eyelashes covered with small white debris were found in the upper part of the lacrimal sac. No eyelash bundles were present from the lower lacrimal sac to the nasolacrimal duct, and the mucosa was normal. The saline was able to pass through; however, the lower part of the nasolacrimal duct was narrowed into a funnel shape. We widened it with a sheath while observing the endoscopy images. Eyelashes were flushed from the lacrimal sac through the nasolacrimal duct using the sheath and saline flow. A lacrimal tube was placed for 2 months and removed, and then the patient healed without dacryocystorhinostomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 35-year-old female with a history of chronic extensive rhinosinusitis, previously treated twice with functional endoscopic sinus surgery, presented with recurrent dacryocystitis despite prior dacryocystorhinostomy. Histopathological specimens taken at the most recent sinus surgery demonstrated a lymphocytic inflammatory reaction without evidence of angiodestruction or necrosis. Flow cytometry was normal. Over the following 9 months, the patient developed worsening hypertelorism and bilateral recurrent acute dacryocystitis with a fistula tract to the skin. Neuroimaging revealed a hyperintense enhancing soft tissue expansion into the periorbital regions, invading the nasolacrimal canals, and obstructing the paranasal sinuses. A skin biopsy at the fistula site revealed natural killer T-cell lymphoma. Metastatic work-up disclosed lung, spleen, and bone marrow involvement. The patient underwent chemotherapy with mixed clinical response, and ultimately passed away from metastatic disease. The authors present a rare case of natural killer T-cell lymphoma involving the nasolacrimal sac, presenting as recurrent dacryocystitis and diagnosed by skin biopsy of the fistula site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Though rhinosporidiosis of the lacrimal sac is a rare disease across the globe, the frequency with which these patients come to the outpatient department in western Odisha is quite alarming. This study was undertaken to upgrade the knowledge about the clinical profile and management of rhinosporidiosis of the lacrimal sac. Methods: This is a retrospective study comprising 32 clinically diagnosed and histopathologically proved cases of lacrimal sac rhinosporidiosis who were managed with dacryocystectomy with meticulous excision. Intraoperative copious irrigation with 5% povidone–iodine for 5 min and postoperative dapsone therapy for 3–6 months had been administered to all the patients. The mean follow-up period was 16.7 months. The study was conducted over 5 years from August 2015 to July 2020. Results: Rhinosporidium seeberi, an aquatic protistan parasite, was found to be the causative agent. Males and females were affected equally. Children less than 10 years of age comprised 56.2% (18 cases). History of pond bathing was found in 100% of cases. The most common presentation was boggy swelling over the lacrimal sac. The involvement was unilateral in all the cases. None of the patients were found to have nasal involvement. In 65.6%, the lesion was limited within the sac. Recurrence was noted in 25% of cases. Conclusion: Rhinosporidiosis of the lacrimal sac should be excluded in all patients presenting with boggy swelling of the lacrimal sac with a history of pond bath. The recurrence can be minimized by meticulous excision, intraoperative betadine, and postoperative dapsone therapy.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of the maxillary line (ML)-lacrimal sac anterior border (LSA) distance on the results of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (EDCR) operation. The study was designed retrospectively. The distance between LSA and ML was measured from preoperative paranasal sinus computed tomography (PNSCT) images. Nasolacrimal duct obstruction symptom score (NLDO-SS) was calculated before and after surgery. The endoscopically proven of the transition of the 2% fluorescein drop instilled into the eye to the nasal passage accepted as a surgical success. 47 patients included in the study and eight of them underwent bilateral EDCR. The average age of the patients was 50.3 ± 14.8. The LSA-ML distance was 4.2 ± 1.0 mm in all patients. The duration of surgery was found as 38.1 ± 6.1 min for each side. The preoperative NLDO-SS mean was 54.9 ± 11.7 and 22.2 ± 12.1 postoperatively (p = 0.000, CI = 28.9–36.2). Six patients (11%) required revision surgery. A statistically significant high positive correlation was found between duration of surgery and LSA-ML distance (p = 0.000, r = 0.840). There was a significant negative correlation between the duration of surgery and postoperative NLDO-SS (p = 0.041, r = −0.276). The LSA-ML distance calculated in this study was found to be significantly associated with the decrease in the duration of surgery and the NLDO-SS score obtained after surgery. However, more valid results can be obtained if similar studies are carried out in larger samples containing a sufficient number of revision cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhinosporidiosis is a chronic granulomatous disease involving the mucous membranes of nose and nasopharynx caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi. Rhinosporidiosis involving the eye is known as Oculosporidiosis. Usually affected patients present with nasal obstruction with an associated mass, epistaxis and watery discharge. In our case, there was involvement of the nasolacrimal duct which resulted in bloody discharge from the punctum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lacrimal sac and nasolacrimal duct tumors are extremely rare, and most of them are malignant tumors, which are often misdiagnosed as chronic dacryocystitis. We herein report a rare case of a 29-year-old female, presented with a history of watering in the right eye associated with a rapidly progressive mass for 4 months near the medial canthus. Further clinical examination revealed firm, non-tender mass occupying the lacrimal sac fossa extending above the medial canthus. The systemic examination was unremarkable, with a palpable right submandibular lymph node palpable. Contrast-enhanced computerized tomography (CECT) orbit revealed a well-defined mass at the medial canthus extending into the osseous nasolacrimal canal. An excision biopsy was performed, and histopathology revealed a poorly differentiated sebaceous carcinoma of the lacrimal sac. The oncologist advised CECT chest, face, and neck post-surgery, which revealed malignant neoplastic changes at the right lacrimal sac region and lacrimal duct with metastasis at right nodes I b, II, V, and left nodes I b and II. Five-month follow-up showed no signs of recurrence., Competing Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2024.)

Aim: To report the clinical profile, endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (En-DCR) management, and acute dacryocystitis (AD) outcomes in China., Methods: Clinical data of 554 adult AD patients (554 eyes) who presented in 7 tertiary eye care centers for 10y from Jan 2010 to Mar 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical profile, En-DCR management, and outcomes of all cases were recorded. The anatomical and functional success were evaluated for 12mo post-operation., Results: The analysis included 149 males and 368 females with a median age of 55.2y (range: 18-84y). There were 459 eyes with a history of epiphora or purulent secretion. The time between a symptom of lacrimal duct obstruction and acute onset was 1 to 540 (66.1±58.2)mo. Fifty-nine eyes had a history of the previous acute attack. Seventy-four eyes developed a cutaneous fistula, while 11 eyes had post septal cellulitis pre-operation. En-DCR with an anatomical success of 91.7% and functional success of 90.1%. The success rate of the patients with a history of acute episodes and the preoperative fistula was lower than the overall success rates., Conclusion: En-DCR can be performed during an acute episode in AD with a success rate of over 90%., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: Mao BX, None; Wang YH, None; Liu ZK, None; An NY, None; Jin HL, None; Wang ML, None; Wu WC, None; Yu B, None., (International Journal of Ophthalmology Press.)

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a myeloid neoplasm characterized by clonal neoplastic proliferation of Langerhans-type dendritic cells associated with an inflammatory infiltrate predominantly composed of lymphocytes and eosinophils. In this article, we present an unusual case of LCH with significant swelling in the left lacrimal sac region in a 3-year-old child, clinically mimicking acute dacryocystitis. Microscopically, it showed intense inflammatory infiltrate and histiocytes with irregular nuclei. The tumor cells were positive for S-100 protein, CD1a, and CD207 (langerin). Molecular study was positive for the V600E/E2/D mutation (EXON 15). This case emphasizes the importance of careful clinical, radiographic, and microscopic evaluation, as some neoplasms may mimic common benign lesions., (Copyright © 2024 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Inverted papilloma originating from the lacrimal sac and the nasolacrimal duct is rare, although that in the sinonasal region is a relatively common lesion with local invasion, malignant potential and high recurrence rates after surgery. We report a 52-year-old woman with inverted papilloma of the right lacrimal sac and the nasolacrimal duct, who underwent CT, MR imaging and FDG-PET/CT preoperatively. In addition to CT and MR imaging features similar to those in previous reports, the inverted papilloma exhibited marked FDG accumulation with a maximum standardized uptake value of 7.34 and no other significant FDG accumulation was detected. In summary, our case of inverted papilloma originating from the right lacrimal sac and the nasolacrimal duct noted marked FDG accumulation on PET/CT, which enabled visualization of the localized tumor extension with no metastases.

Mucopeptide concretions, previously called dacryoliths, are macroscopic stones that commonly obstruct the lacrimal sac. The mechanism behind dacryolithiasis remains unclear; however, the involvement of various immune cells, including neutrophils, has been confirmed. These findings remain limited, and no information on neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), essentially involved in the pathogenesis of other lithiases, is available yet. Here, we employ microcomputed tomography, magnetic resonance tomography, histochemistry, mass spectrometry, and enzyme activity analyses to investigate the role of neutrophils and NETs in dacryolithiasis. We classify mucopeptide concretions into three types, with respect to the quantity of cellular and acellular material, polysaccharides, and mucosubstances. We propose the role of neutrophils and NETs within the existing model of gradual formation and growth of mucopeptide concretions, with neutrophils contributing to the initial stages of dacryolithiasis, as they localized on the inner (older) parts of the tissue. As NETs localized on the outer (newer) parts of the tissue, we link their role to the late stages of dacryolithiasis, presumably maintaining the proinflammatory environment and preventing efficient clearance. An abundance of IgG on the surface indicates the involvement of the adaptive immune system later as well. These findings bring new perspectives on dacryolithiasis, in which the innate and adaptive immune system are essentially involved.

To report the clinical profile and management outcomes of a series of cases of malignant tumors of the lacrimal drainage system (LDS). A retrospective analysis of all cases diagnosed with LDS malignancy over the past 24 years (1995–2019) was done. Patient characteristics, tumor types, management, and outcomes were analyzed. A total of 14 patients were included. Thirteen cases were of primary malignancy, while one was a secondary lesion. The mean age was 42.5 years, with males and females being equally affected. A medial canthal mass was the most common (9, 64.2%) presentation. Six patients (42.8%) had undergone one or more dacryocystorhinostomy surgeries for nasolacrimal duct obstruction before presentation. Seven patients underwent wide local excision (50%) while 3 (21.4%) each underwent dacryocystectomy and exenteration. Adjuvant radiation was administered to 4 (28.5%) patients. Thirteen (92.8%) patients were diagnosed with epithelial malignancy while one (7.1%) was a case of small B cell lymphoma. Transitional cell carcinoma was the most common epithelial malignancy (4, 28.5%). Three (21.4%) patients had metastatic disease (2 lymph nodes and one angle of jaw). There was no mortality after a mean follow up of 40.7+_25.1 months (Median 26; Range 4–131). LDS malignancy is rare, with the epithelial variant being far more common than non-epithelial. Wide local excision with adjuvant radiotherapy is the preferred management. Long-term follow-up is essential to manage recurrences and to increase survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Though rhinosporidiosis of the lacrimal sac is a rare disease across the globe, the frequency with which these patients come to the outpatient department in western Odisha is quite alarming. This study was undertaken to upgrade the knowledge about the clinical profile and management of rhinosporidiosis of the lacrimal sac.Methods: This is a retrospective study comprising 32 clinically diagnosed and histopathologically proved cases of lacrimal sac rhinosporidiosis who were managed with dacryocystectomy with meticulous excision. Intraoperative copious irrigation with 5% povidone-iodine for 5 min and postoperative dapsone therapy for 3-6 months had been administered to all the patients. The mean follow-up period was 16.7 months. The study was conducted over 5 years from August 2015 to July 2020.Results: Rhinosporidium seeberi, an aquatic protistan parasite, was found to be the causative agent. Males and females were affected equally. Children less than 10 years of age comprised 56.2% (18 cases). History of pond bathing was found in 100% of cases. The most common presentation was boggy swelling over the lacrimal sac. The involvement was unilateral in all the cases. None of the patients were found to have nasal involvement. In 65.6%, the lesion was limited within the sac. Recurrence was noted in 25% of cases.Conclusion: Rhinosporidiosis of the lacrimal sac should be excluded in all patients presenting with boggy swelling of the lacrimal sac with a history of pond bath. The recurrence can be minimized by meticulous excision, intraoperative betadine, and postoperative dapsone therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, a minimally invasive treatment for lacrimal passage diseases was developed using dacryoendoscopy. Good visibility of the lacrimal passage is important for examination and treatment. This study aimed to investigate whether image processing can improve the dacryoendoscopic visibility using comb-removal and image-sharpening algorithms. We processed 20 dacryoendoscopic images (original images) using comb-removal and image-sharpening algorithms. Overall, 40 images (20 original and 20 post-processing) were randomly presented to the evaluators, who scored each image on a 10-point scale. The scores of the original and post-processing images were compared statistically. Additionally, in vitro experiments were performed using a test chart to examine whether image processing could improve the dacryoendoscopic visibility in a turbid fluid. The visual score (estimate ± standard error) of the images significantly improved from 3.52 ± 0.26 (original images) to 5.77 ± 0.28 (post-processing images; p < 0.001, linear mixed-effects model). The in vitro experiments revealed that the contrast and resolution of images in the turbid fluid improved after image processing. Image processing with our comb-removal and image-sharpening algorithms improved dacryoendoscopic visibility. The techniques used in this study are applicable for real-time processing and can be easily introduced in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Removal of the surrounding bone during dacryocystorhinostomy may present a higher risk of skull base injury in patients with frontal sinus aplasia. We used sinus plain films to predict cases with a greater risk of a reduced skull base distance in dacryocystorhinostomy. Methods: Sinus plain films and computed tomography data from patients were retrospectively evaluated. The frontal sinus was classified as normal, hypoplastic, or aplastic according to Waters' view. Correlations of the frontal sinus roof-supraorbital margin (F-O) and the frontal sinus roof-nasion (F-N) distances on plain film with the closest lacrimal sac-anterior skull base (LS-ASB) distance measured on computed tomography images were assessed. Results: We evaluated 110 patients. In total, 16 (11.8%) patients had frontal sinus aplasia, of whom 6 (2.7%) had bilateral and 10 (9.1%) had unilateral aplasia. Sides with frontal sinus aplasia based on Waters' view had a shorter median LS-ASB distance than normal or hypoplastic sides. The F-O and F-N distances in Waters' view were significantly positively correlated with the computed tomographic LS-ASB distance. The F-O margin and F-N distance thresholds for predicting an LS-ASB distance < 10 mm, considered a risky distance, were 11.6 and 14.4 mm, respectively, with sensitivities of 100% and 91.7%, and specificities of 76% and 82.7%, respectively. Conclusions: The LS-ASB distance is closer on aplastic frontal sinus sides. Waters' view on plain sinus films can provide a fast and inexpensive method for evaluating the skull base distance and sinonasal condition during planning for dacryocystorhinostomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 52-year-old male presented with right eye prominence of 1-year duration. Right eye examination revealed proptosis and limitation of extraocular movements. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the orbit showed soft tissue mass in the inferomedial orbit with medial rectus involvement and involving lacrimal sac. The patient underwent an incisional biopsy. Histopathology confirmed a diagnosis of primary orbital adenocarcinoma. Positron emission tomography computed tomography (PET CT) did not show the involvement of any other organ. Right orbital exenteration was done for disease control. On histopathology the mass was found to be arising from the lacrimal sac and was reported as apocrine adenocarcinoma. The diagnosis was further confirmed by immunohistochemistry with the tumor staining positive for gross cystic disease fluid protein 15 (GCDFP 15). The patient received adjuvant radiotherapy and is alive without any recurrence at 1 year of follow up. Apocrine adenocarcinomas are rare malignant skin adnexal tumors. Involvement of lacrimal sac is extremely rare with only one case reported in the literature till date. Immunohistochemistry utilizing GCDFP 15 stain can confirm the diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), a sutured anastomosis technique performed between the nasal mucosal and lacrimal sac flaps reported by Dupuy-Dutemps and Bourguet was the gold standard and was believed to lead to the success of the surgery. However, because of the small working space, a flap suturing technique has not been completely established in endonasal DCR (END-DCR). The effect of the modified flap suture anastomosis technique using a Sonopet ultrasonic bone aspirator was retrospectively compared to that using a diamond burr in patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction. One hundred ten patients underwent the modified flap suturing technique using the Sonopet, and 30 patients were operated on using a diamond burr. Successful patency of the lacrimal ostium (LO) was obtained in all patients in both groups. The rates of successful suturing during the operation and of a large diameter of the LO 3 months after the operation were significantly higher in patients in whom the Sonopet rather than the burr was used. The Sonopet might offer similar surgical outcome to the traditional microdrill DCR and is a safer means of bone removal in END-DCR in the small working space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary lymphoma originating from the lacrimal drainage system is a rare disease. Such lymphomas are mostly B-cell in origin and present nonspecific symptoms. The treatment of malignant lymphoma of the lacrimal drainage system is slightly different. We present the case of a 71-year-old woman with a painless mass below the medial canthus. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the orbit revealed a mass invading the right lacrimal sac. An incision biopsy was obtained, and the pathologic findings suggested a diagnosis of primary diffuse large Bcell lymphoma of the lacrimal sac. The patient was treated with chemotherapy and intrathecal methotrexate. After completing eight cycles of chemotherapy, the patient was followed up by a CT scan, which revealed nearly total resolution of an ill-defined enhancing mass. At the time of this case report writing, the patient is in complete remission at six months with no other complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To describe the clinical presentation, surgical intervention and clinical outcomes of patients with a lacrimal sac diverticulum. Methods: Retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent endonasal endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in a single medical center from January 2010 to October 2020. The diagnosis of a lacrimal sac diverticulum was based upon intraoperative findings. Results: In total, 406 patients underwent endonasal endoscopic DCR during the study period. Eight female patients (mean age 35 years) were diagnosed with a lacrimal diverticulum and underwent DCR by an endonasal endoscopic approach. The mean follow-up period was 11.5 months. All eight patients had cystic findings at the lacrimal fossa on imaging studies prior to surgery. Five patients had a history of dacryocystitis. The main presenting symptoms were epiphora and/or medial canthal swelling. The diverticulum was identified on the inferior wall in seven cases. A dacryolith in the lacrimal sac was identified intraoperatively in two patients. All patients showed full resolution of symptoms after surgery. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Conclusion: Lacrimal sac diverticulum is a rare entity with female predominance. It may be the underlying etiology of epiphora and/or dacryocystitis. The diagnosis is based upon identifying the presence of a diverticulum intraoperatively. Endoscopic DCR is an effective approach for integrating both the lacrimal sac and diverticulum cavities into a single space, leading to resolution of symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Congenital lacrimal sac fistula is a rare anomaly of the lacrimal system in which, an epithelium-lined lacrimal tract is connected to the skin through a fistula. In most cases, it usually presents as an asymptomatic unilateral lesion located inferolateral to the medial canthus. Several studies reported that congenital lacrimal sac fistulas may be associated with systemic anomalies like Down syndrome, renal agenesis, etc. However, in this case, we aimed to report a patient with isolated bilateral congenital lacrimal sac fistula and its surgical management. Case presentation: A previously healthy 17 years old female presented with the complaint of intermittent watery discharge from her left eye since a few months ago. Physical examination revealed a small orifice in the skin at about 4 mm from the medial canthus on the medial side in both eyes without any signs of inflammation. Probing and irrigation in the left eye disclosed communication with the puncta and nose. Surgical repair was carried out through fistulectomy which successfully controlled the patient’s lacrimation. Conclusions: Recent advances in surgical techniques have shown better rates of success in relieving the patient’s lacrimation through fistulectomy than the simple excision methods. Our experience with the case presented here demonstrates that this lacrimal system anomaly can be treated successfully by surgical intervention.