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Purpose: To assess whether the duration of disease may influence the surgical success of Endonasal Endoscopic DCR (EE-DCR) in patients affected by nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO). Methods: Single-center observational retrospective analysis on EE-DCR via posterior trans-ethmoidal approach. Consecutive patients were enrolled in 2021–2024 and evaluated with proper questionnaires; resolution of epiphora and dacryocystitis were analyzed after 1 (T1) and 6-months (T2) from surgery. Surgical success was defined as anatomical (patency at irrigation, no recurring dacryocystitis) or complete (zeroing of Munk score). Also, patients were asked to complete the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at each timepoint. The sample was divided based on the duration of disease (group A: ≤ 24 months, group B: > 24 months). Results: Ninety-one patients were included. At baseline no differences were observed between the two groups. At both timepoints, Munk score was significantly lower in Group A compared to Group B, while a difference in dacryocystitis rate was observed only at T2. Anxiety scores differed significantly at T2, although no differences were observed for depression. At paired analysis, all groups improved significantly at T1 compared to baseline, whereas no further improvement was observed between T2 and T1. A significantly higher improvement was observed in group A for the Munk and HADS-A scores over timepoints, whereas there was no significance for dacryocystitis rate and HADS-D. Also, group A showed a higher complete success rate compared to group B (p = 0.041). Finally, linear regression confirmed a positive relationship between Munk and anxiety scores and the duration of disease at T2. Conclusions: Our findings showed that long-lasting NLDO symptoms may be associated with worse EE-DCR surgical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Infection of the lacrimal sac (dacryocystitis) can lead to serious complications, including orbital cellulitis, orbital abscess, meningitis, and cavernous sinus thrombosis, all of which pose significant threats to human health. This condition is often associated with nasolacrimal duct obstruction, which prevents normal tear drainage and creates an environment conducive to microbial growth. Timely identification of the causative agents of dacryocystitis is critical, as untreated or improperly managed infections can rapidly worsen, leading to systemic infections or even life-threatening conditions. This study aims to investigate the spectrum of microbiological agents causing dacryocystitis to control infection and provide appropriate treatment for patients with chronic nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study included patients diagnosed with chronic dacryocystitis who candidated for dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery. Routine ophthalmic examinations, including visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, and fundoscopy, were performed for all patients. Ocular discharge samples were sent to the laboratory at the Pediatric Infectious Disease Research Centre, Bu-Ali Sina Hospital, Sari. Each sample was incubated in blood agar, chocolate agar, EMB, and Sabouraud dextrose agar under aerobic conditions at 37°C for 24 hours and simultaneously in chocolate agar and blood agar under anaerobic conditions at 37°C for 48 hours. Catalase tests were used to distinguish Staphylococcus from Streptococcus bacteria, coagulase tests to differentiate Staphylococcus aureus from other Staphylococcus species, and oxidase tests to identify Pseudomonas and other Gram-negative bacteria. For detecting fungal infections, samples were stored on Sabouraud dextrose agar at 25-27°C for two weeks. Gram staining was performed on observed colonies, followed by microbiological diagnostic and differential tests based on bacterial species. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, described as means, and compared using the chi-squared test. Results: Of the 50 patients with chronic dacryocystitis included in the study, with a mean age of 56.9±15.28 years (range, 31 to 86 years), 34(68%) were female, and 16(32%) were male. Gram-positive bacteria accounted for 42 cases (84%) of isolated organisms, while gram-negative bacteria accounted for 8 cases (16%). Pus reflux was detected in 84% of cases, significantly more often with gram-positive organisms(P=0.03). The most common pathogens were Staphylococcus epidermidis (22 cases, 44%), Staphylococcus aureus (10 cases, 20%), and Streptococcus pneumoniae (6 cases, 12%). No significant correlations were found between sex and age with the number and type of organisms (P=0.77). Conclusion: Gram-positive bacteria are the main cause of chronic dacryocystitis infections, and demographic factors such as age and gender do not influence the type of infection. Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus have been identified as the predominant pathogens responsible for this condition. Understanding the microbiological spectrum can improve disease diagnosis and lead to more effective treatment strategies. This information is essential to help clinicians select appropriate, targeted antimicrobial treatments to more effectively control infections, reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance, prevent serious complications and systemic infections, and ultimately improve patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Epiphora, or excessive tearing, is a common symptom often attributed to benign conditions such as dry eye or nasolacrimal duct obstruction. However, it can also be an early indicator of lacrimal sac tumors, which are frequently misdiagnosed or diagnosed late due to their subtle presentation. This study aims to identify the clinical features that contribute to delays and misdiagnoses of lacrimal sac tumors in patients presenting with epiphora, with the goal of improving early detection and treatment outcomes. Methods: This retrospective study reviewed medical records from Taipei Veterans General Hospital between 2007 and 2023, focusing on patients who presented with epiphora and were later diagnosed with pathologically confirmed lacrimal sac tumors. Inclusion criteria were limited to cases that were initially misdiagnosed or had a delayed diagnosis, with imaging and clinical evaluations confirming tumor-related tear drainage obstruction. Patients with non-tumor causes of epiphora were excluded. Results: Eleven cases of lacrimal sac tumors were identified, including two benign and nine malignant tumors. The average duration from symptom onset to diagnosis was 22.4 months. Common symptoms included epiphora (100%), discharge (54.5%), and hemolacria (18.2%). Subtle clinical signs, such as asymmetry in the medial canthal region and non-tender swelling, were frequently noted. Despite receiving appropriate surgical and adjuvant treatments, the impact of delayed diagnosis was significant. Two patients succumbed to tumor-related disease; one developed lung metastasis 12 years after diagnosis, and another experienced recurrence during a six-year follow-up after undergoing extensive exenteration, adjuvant chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Conclusions: Lacrimal sac tumors can present insidiously with symptoms often mistaken for benign conditions, leading to significant diagnostic delays. Thorough history taking, meticulous physical examination, and timely imaging are crucial for early detection. Increased clinician awareness and a high index of suspicion for lacrimal sac tumors in patients with atypical epiphora are essential to improve prognosis and reduce the risk of severe outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dacryocystitis, inflammation and infection of the lacrimal sac, is most commonly caused by infection from Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species. This report highlights a rare case of chronic dacryocystitis due to the atypical pathogen Mycobacterium abscessus. A 62-year-old woman presented with several months of left medial canthal pain, tenderness, and discharge. Exam demonstrated a left tender medial nodule, and imaging showed left lacrimal sac dilation and fluid collection consistent with dacryocystitis. She underwent external dacryocystorhinostomy with drainage and culture of the abscess, which was positive for M. abscessus. Her post-surgical treatment required an extended course of antibiotics, including omadacycline and azithromycin, with slow but progressive symptomatic improvement. This case is only the second reported case of dacryocystitis due to M. abscessus and suggests a role for culturing lacrimal sac abscesses intraoperatively due to the need for extended antibiotic therapy for atypical infections that may have high antibiotic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) stands as an essential surgical procedure for addressing the persistent challenge of dacryocystitis—a condition marked by inflammation of the lacrimal sac due to nasolacrimal duct obstruction. A hospital-based retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital, spanning the years 2018 to 2023, involving 34 patients who underwent Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy. The study involved the examination of their clinical presentations, surgical techniques employed, and resulting outcomes along with causes of failure. Our study included 34 patients who had presented with persistent watering of eyes. The maximum number of cases was in the age group of 46–60 years (38%), with a minimum age of 7 years and a maximum age of 68 years. Among those 34 patients, 5 underwent a revision DCR. Fifteen patients underwent stenting. Thirteen of the fifteen patients, who underwent stenting came for regular postoperative follow up and stent removal was done 6 to 8 weeks later. The two patients who were lost to follow-up presented after 4 years of their initial surgery with persistent symptoms. The success rate of endoscopic DCR was 94% in our study. Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy has emerged as a practical solution for addressing nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Despite numerous surgical modifications documented over time, the endoscopic DCR technique consistently demonstrates excellent outcomes with minimal patient morbidity. This study underscores the significance of thorough preoperative assessment, making informed decisions regarding stenting during both the preoperative and intraoperative period, employing proper surgical techniques, and recognizing the importance of regular post-operative follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a rare case of a patient who developed a relapse of dacryocystitis and maxillary sinusitis although previous dacryocystectomy. We decided to perform an external dacryocystorhinostomy to remove the scar and the residual part of the lacrimal sac combined with endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) to solve the symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Infection of the lacrimal sac (dacryocystitis) can lead to serious complications, including orbital cellulitis, orbital abscess, meningitis, and cavernous sinus thrombosis, all of which pose significant threats to human health. This condition is often associated with nasolacrimal duct obstruction, which prevents normal tear drainage and creates an environment conducive to microbial growth. Timely identification of the causative agents of dacryocystitis is critical, as untreated or improperly managed infections can rapidly worsen, leading to systemic infections or even life-threatening conditions. This study aims to investigate the spectrum of microbiological agents causing dacryocystitis to control infection and provide appropriate treatment for patients with chronic nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study included patients diagnosed with chronic dacryocystitis who candidated for dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery. Routine ophthalmic examinations, including visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, and fundoscopy, were performed for all patients. Ocular discharge samples were sent to the laboratory at the Pediatric Infectious Disease Research Centre, Bu-Ali Sina Hospital, Sari. Each sample was incubated in blood agar, chocolate agar, EMB, and Sabouraud dextrose agar under aerobic conditions at 37°C for 24 hours and simultaneously in chocolate agar and blood agar under anaerobic conditions at 37°C for 48 hours. Catalase tests were used to distinguish Staphylococcus from Streptococcus bacteria, coagulase tests to differentiate Staphylococcus aureus from other Staphylococcus species, and oxidase tests to identify Pseudomonas and other Gram-negative bacteria. For detecting fungal infections, samples were stored on Sabouraud dextrose agar at 25-27°C for two weeks. Gram staining was performed on observed colonies, followed by microbiological diagnostic and differential tests based on bacterial species. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, described as means, and compared using the chi-squared test. Results: Of the 50 patients with chronic dacryocystitis included in the study, with a mean age of 56.9±15.28 years (range, 31 to 86 years), 34(68%) were female, and 16(32%) were male. Gram-positive bacteria accounted for 42 cases (84%) of isolated organisms, while gram-negative bacteria accounted for 8 cases (16%). Pus reflux was detected in 84% of cases, significantly more often with gram-positive organisms(P=0.03). The most common pathogens were Staphylococcus epidermidis (22 cases, 44%), Staphylococcus aureus (10 cases, 20%), and Streptococcus pneumoniae (6 cases, 12%). No significant correlations were found between sex and age with the number and type of organisms (P=0.77). Conclusion: Gram-positive bacteria are the main cause of chronic dacryocystitis infections, and demographic factors such as age and gender do not influence the type of infection. Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus have been identified as the predominant pathogens responsible for this condition. Understanding the microbiological spectrum can improve disease diagnosis and lead to more effective treatment strategies. This information is essential to help clinicians select appropriate, targeted antimicrobial treatments to more effectively control infections, reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance, prevent serious complications and systemic infections, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Invasive sino-orbital fungal infection is an uncommon, yet severe condition that predominantly affects individuals with compromised immune systems. In this study, we report the case of a 5-month-old immunocompetent infant who exhibited persistent dacryocystitis despite receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics. Subsequently, the patient developed ethmoiditis, orbital subperiosteal abscess, and ulceration of the hard palate. Mycological and histological samples were indicative of Candida infections. The patient underwent sinus surgery and surgical debridement, along with antifungal therapy. The treatment was successful, and the follow-up was uneventful for up to 6 months. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of invasive sino-orbital candidiasis in an immunocompetent infant with dacryocystitis as the entry point. This study explores the clinical features, management approaches, and outcomes of this potentially fatal disease.

Background/Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare dacryocystectomy (DCT) versus dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in patients with dacryocystitis in terms of tearing complaints. Methods: We conducted a retrospective and comparative study on 19 patients. The main outcome measure was defined as an improvement by 1 point of the Munk score postoperatively. Results: A total of 19 patients were included with 10 in the DCR group and 9 in the DCT group. The primary endpoint was reached in 7 (70%) and in 6 (67%) patients in the DCR and DCT groups, respectively (p > 0.999). All DCR procedures were performed under general anesthesia (GA), while almost all DCT procedures were performed under local anesthesia (LA) (p < 0.001). There was a higher need for hospitalization in the DCR group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our preliminary results indicate that DCR is not always the solution in the case of dacryocystitis. DCT is a viable surgical procedure, especially in elderly patients without any tearing complaint and with underlying dry eye disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeWe investigated the therapeutic effect of recombinant thymosin β4 (rTβ4) on rabbit autoimmune dacryoadenitis, an animal model of SS dry eye, and explore its mechanisms.MethodsRabbits were treated topically with rTβ4 or PBS solution after disease onset for 28 days, and clinical scores were determined by assessing tear secretion, break-up time, fluorescein, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and periodic acid-Schiff. The expression of inflammatory mediators in the lacrimal glands were measured by real-time PCR. The expression of T helper 17 (Th17) cell-related transcription factors and cytokines were detected by real-time PCR and Western blotting. The molecular mechanism underlying the effects of rTβ4 on Th17 cell responses was investigated by Western blotting.ResultsTopical administration of rTβ4 after disease onset efficiently ameliorated the ocular surface inflammation and relieved the clinical symptoms. Further analysis revealed that rTβ4 treatment significantly inhibited the expression of Th17-related genes (RORC, IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-1R1, IL-23R, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor) and IL-17 protein in lacrimal glands, and meanwhile decreased the inflammatory mediators expression. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that rTβ4 repressed the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) both in vivo and in vitro. Activation of the STAT3 signal pathway by Colivelin partly reversed the suppressive effects of rTβ4 on IL-17 expression in vitro.ConclusionsrTβ4 could alleviate ongoing autoimmune dacryoadenitis in rabbits, probably by suppressing Th17 response via partly affecting the STAT3 pathway. These data may provide a new insight into the therapeutic effect and mechanism of rTβ4 in dry eye associated with Sjögren's syndrome.

Objective: Present study was conducted to evaluate the trends of Microbial agent in patients with chronic Dacryocystitis and their drug resistance pattern. Material and method: A total of 86 patients suffering from chronic Dacryocystitis were included in the study. From all the patients a total of 86 Swab samples were taken aseptically and send for culture and sensitivity testing. Result: A total of 74 pure cultures isolated from 86 swab samples, the most common organism found were Staphylococcus aureus in 33 cases (44.59%) followed by Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus (CONS) in 14 cases (18.91%). Amongst S. aureus isolates, aminoglycoside group of antibiotics i.e. Amikacin, and Tobramycin showed a good sensitivity of 66.66%, and 81.81%. Against beta lactam group of antibiotics like cefazolin (63.63%) and cefotaxime (66.66%) were sensitive. Moxifloxacin showed 100% sensitivity when compared to ciprofloxacin (87.8%). For S. pneumoniae moxifloxacin, cefotaxime and cefazolin gave a high sensitivity of 100% followed by Ciprofloxacin 87.8% and Chloramphenicol showed a sensitivity of 51.51%. Amongst Gram negative Bacilli (GNB) maximum isolates (100%) were sensitive to Ceftazidime which is a third generation Cephalosporin with a good antipseudomonal activity followed by Cefotaxime (82.35%). Sensitivity to Moxifloxacin was observed in 82.35% isolates as compared to 47.05% sensitivity against Ciprofloxacin. Amikacin and Tobramycin was equal effective in 64.70% of isolates. Conclusion: Staphylococcus is the major cause in pathogenesis of chronic dacryocystitis, and candida albicans in few cases which might to be due to reduced immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pilot study to identify bacterial biofilm in the lacrimal sacs of patients with chronic dacryocystitis, and in patients with epiphora but without discharge, using scanning electron microscopy. Five patients: two with nasolacrimal duct obstruction without dacryocystitis, and three with dacryocystitis refractory to antibiotics, underwent external dacryocystorhinostomy. One control patient without infection was included. Bacterial cultures were obtained from the lumen of the lacrimal sac to analyze possible bacterial growth, including antibiotic resistance. Biopsies were taken from all lacrimal sacs and prepared for light and scanning electron microscopy. Scanning electron microscopy of all the lacrimal sac samples revealed structures consistent with bacterial communities and adjacent extracellular material, indicating biofilm formation. This was most prominent in one of the patients with chronic dacryocystitis. Bacteria were found not only on the luminal surface of the sac, but also within the tissue of the sac. Bacterial growth was identified in samples from two patients with chronic dacryocystitis, whereas samples from the other three patients showed no bacterial growth. Lack of patency of the lacrimal duct predisposes to bacterial growth, even in patients with no clinically confirmed infection of the lacrimal sac. The finding of a biofilm in patients with chronic dacryocystitis explains the lack of efficiency of antibiotic treatment at the concentrations used in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilization of antibiotics for endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (endo-DCR) is largely dependent on individual surgeon preference. This study aimed to investigate prescribing practices of pre-, peri-, and postoperative antibiotics and effects on postoperative infection rates in patients who underwent endo-DCR. A retrospective chart review of institutional data at two academic centers of endo-DCR cases from 2015–2020 was performed. Postoperative infection rates for patients who received pre-, peri-, and postoperative antibiotics, individually or in combination, and those who did not, were compared via odds ratio and ANOVA linear regression. 331 endo-DCR cases were included; 22 cases (6.6%) had a postoperative infection. There was no significant difference in the infection rates between patients without an active preoperative dacryocystitis who received different permutations of peri- and postoperative antibiotics. Patients who received preoperative antibiotics within two weeks of surgery for preexisting acute dacryocystitis, but did not receive peri- or postoperative antibiotics, had a higher rate of postoperative infections (p = 008). Our data suggest antibiotics may be beneficial only when patients have a recent or active dacryocystitis prior to surgery. Otherwise, our data do not support the routine use of antibiotic prophylaxis in endo-DCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the success rates of anterior and anterior-posterior flap anastomosis techniques in external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) operations. Materials and Methods: In our clinic, 82 eyes of 82 patients who underwent external DCR due to epiphora and chronic dacryocystitis were analyzed retrospectively. All of these patients' lacrimal canals were intubated with silicone tube. External DCR surgery was performed with single flap anastomosis in 42 eyes of 42 patients and double flap anastomosis in 40 eyes of 40 patients and control examinations were performed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Surgical success was defined by open punctum lavage and by absence of epiphora after follow-up of 12 months. Results: A total of 82 cases, 62 females and 20 males, were included in the study. Anterior flap surgery was performed in 42 cases and anterior-posterior flap surgery was performed in 40 cases. Of the 40 patients who underwent anterior-posterior flap surgery, 11 were male and 29 were female, and the mean age was 46.53±15.15 years. Of the 42 patients who underwent anterior flap surgery, 9 were male, 33 were female, and the mean age was 48.19±14.15 years. While the mean follow-up period of the anterior-posterior flap group was 15.7±3.4 months, the follow-up period of the anterior flap group was 16.5±4.2 months. The success rate was 92.5 % in the anterior-posterior flap group and 90.5 % in the anterior flap group. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of surgical success (p>0.05). Conclusion: The success rates of the DCR techniques with anterior and anterior-posterior flap anastomosis were similar. Since there is no significant difference in terms of surgical success, the anterior flap anastomosis may be preferred because of the easy technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background To report the microbiological isolates, aetiology, complications, antibiotic susceptibilities, and clinical remission of dacryocystitis and canaliculitis in a prominent tertiary ophthalmic teaching and referral hospital located in northern China and to offer appropriate recommendations for preventing and formulating drug treatment strategies. Methods This prospective study recruited a total of 477 participants who had been diagnosed with either dacryocystitis or canaliculitis. The cohort comprised 307 patients with chronic dacryocystitis, 111 patients with acute dacryocystitis, and 59 patients with canaliculitis. Purulent discharge from the lacrimal duct was collected using a sterile swab and immediately subjected to microbial culture. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted following established protocols. All participants were scheduled for follow-up visits within 14 days after receiving antibiotic therapy. Results The present findings indicated that women exhibited a higher susceptibility to the condition, as evidenced by the occurrence of 367 cases in comparison to 110 cases among men. Among the 477 patients, definitive causes were established in 59 individuals, accounting for 12.4% of the patients. Additionally, ocular complications were reported by 132 patients, representing 27.7% of the total. Monocular involvement was observed in the majority of cases, with 402 out of 477 patients (84.3%) affected, while binocular involvement was present in 75 patients (15.7%). In total, 506 microbiological strains were recovered from 552 eyes, with Staphylococcus epidermidis (16.4%) being the most prevalent microorganism. Other predominant isolates included Corynebacterium macginleyi (9.1%), Staphylococcus aureus (5.1%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (4.9%), Haemophilus (4.4%), Propionibacterium acnes (3.5%), and Eikenella corrodens (3.1%). Among the 12 isolated fungi, Candida parapsilosis accounted for 66.7%. The susceptibility to antimicrobial agents tested in gram-negative bacilli (79.5%) was observed to be higher than that of anaerobic bacteria (76.7%) and gram-positive cocci (55.4%). With pharmacological therapy, the remission rate of acute dacryocystitis (72.7%) was found to be higher than that of canaliculitis (53.3%) and chronic dacryocystitis (42.3%). Conclusions This study highlights the microbial spectrum of dacryocystitis and canaliculitis, particularly C.macginleyi, E.corrodens and C.parapsilosis, which are also more frequently isolated. Vancomycin and imipenem may be more effective treatment options. Most cases have an unknown aetiology, and essential preventive measures involve postoperative cleansing of the lacrimal passage following eye and nasal surgeries, as well as the proactive management of rhinitis.

Yi-Chun Chi,1,2 Chia-Ching Lin,1,2 Tzu-Yu Chiu1,2 1Department of Ophthalmology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; 2Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, TaiwanCorrespondence: Tzu-Yu Chiu, Department of Ophthalmology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Number 100, Tzyou 1st Road, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan, Tel +886-7-3121101 ext. 6531, Email kathychiu77924@hotmail.comPurpose: To investigate the microbiology and antimicrobial susceptibility of dacryocystitis in adults and identify the changing trends over time in Taiwan.Methods: This is a single-centered, retrospective study. We retrospectively reviewed adult patients with dacryocystitis from January 2012 to December 2021 in a tertiary medical center in Taiwan. The pathogens and in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of the pus cultures from the lacrimal sac were collected.Results: Thirty-five cultures in acute and 211 cultures in chronic dacryocystitis were collected. Of the 220 isolates, a similar proportion of gram-positive (44%) and gram-negative (43%) aerobes were demonstrated in chronic dacryocystitis and more gram-negative aerobes (50%) than gram-positive aereobes (41%) in acute dacryocystitis. The most common pathogens were methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA; 28.1%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (28.1%) in acute dacryocystitis, while coagulase-negative Staphylococci was the most common micro-organism in chronic dacryocystitis. The effective antibiotics for gram-positive aerobes were vancomycin (100%), moxifloxacin (88%) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (78%). Meropenem (95%), amikacin (93%), and levofloxacin (91%) were sensitive to more than 90% of gram-negative aerobes in current study. High resistant species were also isolated in our cohort.Conclusion: More gram-negative pathogens and more resistant species are rising in adult dacryocystitis. Understanding the bacteriology and antimicrobial susceptibility of the region is crucial for the empirical antibiotic selection in clinical practice.Keywords: dacryocystitis, antibiotic, microbiology

Purpose: To evaluate the association between meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and primary chronic dacryocystitis (PCD) and the effect of dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) on tear film stability and MGD. Methods: This prospective, interventional, non-randomized study involved 50 unilateral acquired PCD cases and 50 age-matched healthy controls. Patients with lid abnormalities, ocular trauma, previous ocular surgery, contact lens wearers, and chronic topical or systemic drug users were excluded from the study. After a detailed history, the ocular surface disease index (OSDI) was calculated. The ocular assessment included visual acuity, tear meniscus height (TMH), tear break-up time (TBUT), tear well diameter (TWD), Schirmer 1 test, meibomian gland (MG) expressibility, and meibography. PCD eyes underwent external DCR, and the tests were repeated after 8 weeks. Results: The mean age of PCD cases was 42.58 ± 12.74 years, the male: female ratio was 7:19, and the mean duration of epiphora was 2.2 ± 1 years. The MG expressibility grade of ≥2 was seen in 98% (49/50) PCD eyes, which was strongly associated with PCD as compared to controls (OR = 563, P = 0.00, 95% CI = 60.71–5229.70). MG loss ≥50% was seen in 62% (31/50) of PCD eyes and none of the control eyes. Following DCR, MG loss remained unchanged, and a significant decrease occurred in OSDI scores, TWD and Schirmer 1 values, and MG expressibility grade (Z = −6.85). The mean TMH decreased from 767.60 ± 331.60 μm to 384 ± 204.29 μm (P = 0.004) post DCR. Conclusions: PCD is strongly associated with MGD. DCR reverses the functional MG changes with improvement in the tear film stability but no effect on MG loss.

Primary lacrimal sac lymphoma is a rare condition, often presenting with nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Herein, we present a unique case of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) involving the lacrimal sac, maxillary sinus, and infraorbital nerve. Prompt diagnosis via biopsy is essential for timely treatment and the prevention of tumor progression. A 66-year-old female presented with intractable epiphora, infraorbital nerve hypesthesia, and medial canthal swelling. Imaging revealed a soft tissue mass in the right maxillary sinus extending into the right inferior orbit and nasal cavity. A biopsy confirmed DLBCL, prompting systemic chemotherapy. Residual disease prompted high-dose involved-site radiation, resulting in tumor regression. To our knowledge, this is the first case of primary DLBCL of the lacrimal sac with concurrent involvement of the maxillary sinus and infraorbital nerve. This case underscores the significance of lacrimal sac biopsy in refractory dacryocystitis or unilateral sinus disease and the effectiveness of multimodal treatment approaches in managing DLBCL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Epiphora, or excessive tearing, is a common symptom often attributed to benign conditions such as dry eye or nasolacrimal duct obstruction. However, it can also be an early indicator of lacrimal sac tumors, which are frequently misdiagnosed or diagnosed late due to their subtle presentation. This study aims to identify the clinical features that contribute to delays and misdiagnoses of lacrimal sac tumors in patients presenting with epiphora, with the goal of improving early detection and treatment outcomes. Methods: This retrospective study reviewed medical records from Taipei Veterans General Hospital between 2007 and 2023, focusing on patients who presented with epiphora and were later diagnosed with pathologically confirmed lacrimal sac tumors. Inclusion criteria were limited to cases that were initially misdiagnosed or had a delayed diagnosis, with imaging and clinical evaluations confirming tumor-related tear drainage obstruction. Patients with non-tumor causes of epiphora were excluded. Results: Eleven cases of lacrimal sac tumors were identified, including two benign and nine malignant tumors. The average duration from symptom onset to diagnosis was 22.4 months. Common symptoms included epiphora (100%), discharge (54.5%), and hemolacria (18.2%). Subtle clinical signs, such as asymmetry in the medial canthal region and non-tender swelling, were frequently noted. Despite receiving appropriate surgical and adjuvant treatments, the impact of delayed diagnosis was significant. Two patients succumbed to tumor-related disease; one developed lung metastasis 12 years after diagnosis, and another experienced recurrence during a six-year follow-up after undergoing extensive exenteration, adjuvant chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Conclusions: Lacrimal sac tumors can present insidiously with symptoms often mistaken for benign conditions, leading to significant diagnostic delays. Thorough history taking, meticulous physical examination, and timely imaging are crucial for early detection. Increased clinician awareness and a high index of suspicion for lacrimal sac tumors in patients with atypical epiphora are essential to improve prognosis and reduce the risk of severe outcomes.

Purpose Methods Results Conclusion To describe a novel technique of nasolacrimal foreign body extraction in dogs by using a 20G vitreoretinal forceps introduced through the superior lacrimal punctum.A retrospective review of the medical records of dogs with dacryocystitis due to nasolacrimal foreign bodies between the years 2001 and 2022 was performed. We recorded the breed, age, affected eye, type and number of foreign bodies, concomitant diseases, and the use of imaging techniques. All animals underwent the same procedure of a 20G vitreoretinal forceps insertion through the upper canaliculus reaching the lacrimal sac and retrograde extraction of the foreign bodies.A total of 28 dogs were included, 16 males and 12 females, with a mean (±SD) age of 4.7 (±3.2) years. The most common breeds were Wire‐Haired Dachshund (4/28; 14.29%) and Labrador Retriever (3/28; 10.71%). Additional imaging techniques were used, such as orbital ultrasound in 13 cases (13/28; 46.43%) and computed tomography in one case (1/28; 3.57%). The most common type of foreign body retrieved was grass awns, although seeds and plant debris were also found. Dacryocystitis resolved after removal of the foreign body and appropriate medical therapy was ensured in all cases in the 1‐month postprocedure follow‐up.Extraction of nasolacrimal foreign bodies with vitreoretinal forceps is a novel, noninvasive, and easily applicable technique that, although not successful in all cases, can be attempted before performing more aggressive surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To report the microbiological isolates, aetiology, complications, antibiotic susceptibilities, and clinical remission of dacryocystitis and canaliculitis in a prominent tertiary ophthalmic teaching and referral hospital located in northern China and to offer appropriate recommendations for preventing and formulating drug treatment strategies. Methods: This prospective study recruited a total of 477 participants who had been diagnosed with either dacryocystitis or canaliculitis. The cohort comprised 307 patients with chronic dacryocystitis, 111 patients with acute dacryocystitis, and 59 patients with canaliculitis. Purulent discharge from the lacrimal duct was collected using a sterile swab and immediately subjected to microbial culture. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted following established protocols. All participants were scheduled for follow-up visits within 14 days after receiving antibiotic therapy. Results: The present findings indicated that women exhibited a higher susceptibility to the condition, as evidenced by the occurrence of 367 cases in comparison to 110 cases among men. Among the 477 patients, definitive causes were established in 59 individuals, accounting for 12.4% of the patients. Additionally, ocular complications were reported by 132 patients, representing 27.7% of the total. Monocular involvement was observed in the majority of cases, with 402 out of 477 patients (84.3%) affected, while binocular involvement was present in 75 patients (15.7%). In total, 506 microbiological strains were recovered from 552 eyes, with Staphylococcus epidermidis (16.4%) being the most prevalent microorganism. Other predominant isolates included Corynebacterium macginleyi (9.1%), Staphylococcus aureus (5.1%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (4.9%), Haemophilus (4.4%), Propionibacterium acnes (3.5%), and Eikenella corrodens (3.1%). Among the 12 isolated fungi, Candida parapsilosis accounted for 66.7%. The susceptibility to antimicrobial agents tested in gram-negative bacilli (79.5%) was observed to be higher than that of anaerobic bacteria (76.7%) and gram-positive cocci (55.4%). With pharmacological therapy, the remission rate of acute dacryocystitis (72.7%) was found to be higher than that of canaliculitis (53.3%) and chronic dacryocystitis (42.3%). Conclusions: This study highlights the microbial spectrum of dacryocystitis and canaliculitis, particularly C.macginleyi, E.corrodens and C.parapsilosis, which are also more frequently isolated. Vancomycin and imipenem may be more effective treatment options. Most cases have an unknown aetiology, and essential preventive measures involve postoperative cleansing of the lacrimal passage following eye and nasal surgeries, as well as the proactive management of rhinitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various techniques of dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) by an external or endonasal endoscopic approaches are in practice of ophthalmologists and otorhinolaryngologists. The purpose of this paper is to report a case of misplaced intracystic implant in the orbit following external DCR leading to persistence of watering, diplopia and visual diminution. Case Report: A thirty nine year old female patient presented with recurrent left eye pain, swelling over medial side of the left eye, watering, progressive blurring of vision and diplopia after revision external DCR. The ophthalmology examination revealed bilateral decreased vision, left side restricted extraocular eye movements, sub capsular cataract. The computed tomography dacryocystograph (CT-DCG) revealed tubular foreign body in the extra-conal space abutting the medial rectus with proximal block in the nasolacrimal duct. Conclusion: This is the first reported case of misplaced implant following external DCR in the literature. It may be suggested that patients undergoing intracystic larimal implant shall be on close follow up for such an occurrence later for timely intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the association between meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and primary chronic dacryocystitis (PCD) and the effect of dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) on tear film stability and MGD. Methods: This prospective, interventional, non-randomized study involved 50 unilateral acquired PCD cases and 50 age-matched healthy controls. Patients with lid abnormalities, ocular trauma, previous ocular surgery, contact lens wearers, and chronic topical or systemic drug users were excluded from the study. After a detailed history, the ocular surface disease index (OSDI) was calculated. The ocular assessment included visual acuity, tear meniscus height (TMH), tear break-up time (TBUT), tear well diameter (TWD), Schirmer 1 test, meibomian gland (MG) expressibility, and meibography. PCD eyes underwent external DCR, and the tests were repeated after 8 weeks. Results: The mean age of PCD cases was 42.58 ± 12.74 years, the male: female ratio was 7:19, and the mean duration of epiphora was 2.2 ± 1 years. The MG expressibility grade of ≥2 was seen in 98% (49/50) PCD eyes, which was strongly associated with PCD as compared to controls (OR = 563, P = 0.00, 95% CI = 60.71–5229.70). MG loss ≥50% was seen in 62% (31/50) of PCD eyes and none of the control eyes. Following DCR, MG loss remained unchanged, and a significant decrease occurred in OSDI scores, TWD and Schirmer 1 values, and MG expressibility grade (Z = −6.85). The mean TMH decreased from 767.60 ± 331.60 μm to 384 ± 204.29 μm (P = 0.004) post DCR. Conclusions: PCD is strongly associated with MGD. DCR reverses the functional MG changes with improvement in the tear film stability but no effect on MG loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dacryocystitis is a common disease in pediatric ophthalmology. Analysis of basic information, flora distribution, and characteristics of information on drug-resistant bacteria in children with dacryocystitis for 6 years, providing evidence for ophthalmologic infection prevention and clinical management strategies. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate the demographics of dacryocystitis in children and microbiological characteristics of secretion cultures, and to analyze the basic information, distribution of pathogenic bacteria, drug resistance, and to plot trendsand distribution pie charts according to the years. Results: This study recruited 5791 specimens. Decreased incidence of dacryocystitis from 2020 to 2022 (including the COVID-19 pandemic). The age of highest incidence of dacryocystitis is infancy, followed by the neonatal period, and the incidence decreased with age. Streptococcus pneumoniae had the highest percentage in 2017, and the overall trend was decreasing, the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001); Streptococcus mitis showed an overall increasing trend, with the highest incidence in 2022 and the lowest in 2017, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001); Haemophilus influenzae was the most common gram-negative bacteria with an overall decreasing trend (p < 0.001); The incidence of Catamoeba and Stenotrophomonas varied from year to year, with statistically significant differences (p = 0.010, p = 0.033, respectively). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) had the lowest incidence in 2017 and 2022 the highest incidence in 2022, with a statistically significant difference in incidence between years (p = 0.003); β-lactamase-positive was the most common type of resistance, and MRSA was the second, with statistically significant differences between years (p = 0.003, p < 0.001, respectively). Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common etiologic agent of dacryocystitis in all age groups. Conclusions: Dacryocystitis in children is significantly associated with age characteristics and infection-related pathogens, and infection prevention and control can help reduce the infection of related pathogens and the increase of new drug-resistant strains. Close monitoring of changes in pathogen distribution in ocular secretion cultures can help in early intervention and treatment of infectious dacryocystitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) describes the creation of a functional pathway from the canaliculi into the nose by means of creating an osteotomy and opening the nasolacrimal sac into the nose. It can be performed via an external or endonasal approach. Obstruction of the excretory lacrimal system results in epiphora (tearing). Depending upon the exact cause and location of the obstruction, specific surgical procedures are used. In longstanding nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO), mucus can accumulate, resulting in a mucocele in the nasolacrimal sac or even acute or chronic dacryocystitis. Lacrimal surgery to restore tear drainage is usually the definitive treatment and involved one of the types of dacryocystorhinostomy. To compare the clinical profile of patients with chronic dacryocystitis (CDC) with and without associated chronic rhinosinusopathies who had been submitted to external dacryocystorhinostomy (EDCR). Materials and methods: One hundred and sixty patients with chronic dacryocystitis undergoing external DCR were divided into two groups comprising of 80 patients each. Group Aincluded patients, who underwent external DCR with intraoperative use of mitomycin-C. Group B included those patients who were not administered intraoperative mitomycin-C. Sociodemographic information and the data regarding the patency of the lacrimal drainage system by irrigation with normal saline were collected at the end of the third month after the surgery. Chi-square test was used, at 95% confidence level, as the test of significance to compare the success of surgery between the two groups. Result:A total of 90 patients were included in this study, concerning the gender, there was a predominance of the female with 57 out of 90 patients (63.3%) and males were 33 patients. Age groups of 1-20 years are 5 patients (5.6%) and predominant age in the study was elderly more than 61 years old patients 40%. The clinical characteristics of chronic dacryocystitis are shown in table 3, epiphora was found in 66 patients (73.3%) and absent in 24 patients (26.7%). The discharge by the digital expression of the lacrimal sac was attained in 60 patients (66.7%) and not attained in 30 patients (33.3%). The previous history of exacerbation of chronic dacryocystitis identified as purulent discharge occurred in 15 patients (16.7%) and non-occurrence in 75 patients (83.3%). Conclusion: The physiopathology of the CDC is not fully known. This study reveals a possible influence of CRS on the CDC, emphasizing its action on the exacerbation of the symptoms. [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]

PurposeTo investigate the effects and mechanisms of fenofibrate, a synthetic ligand of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPAR-α), on autoimmune dacryoadenitis in a mouse model of Sjögren syndrome (SS) dry eye.MethodsMale nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice were fed chow with or without 0.03% fenofibrate for 8 weeks, and clinical scores were determined by assessing tear secretion, fluorescein, and hematoxylin and eosin staining. Intracellular IFN-γ, IL-17, and Foxp3 in CD4+ T cells were measured by flow cytometry. The expressions of Th1, Th17, and Treg cell-related transcription factors and cytokines were detected by real-time PCR. The levels of PPAR-α and liver X receptor β (LXR-β) were detected with real-time PCR and Western blotting.ResultsFenofibrate efficiently diminished the lymphocytic inflammation in lacrimal glands (LGs), increased tear secretion, and decreased corneal fluorescein staining in NOD mice. Meanwhile, treatment of fenofibrate evidently reduced the proportion of Th1 and Th17 cells and increased the proportion of Treg cells in vivo and vitro, together with decreased expression of T-bet, IFN-γ, RORγt, and IL-17, as well as increased expression of Foxp3 and TGF-β1 in LGs. Furthermore, fenofibrate significantly upregulated the expressions of PPAR-α and LXR-β at the protein and mRNA levels.ConclusionsFenofibrate potently attenuated LG inflammation in a model of autoimmune dry eye, and this effect might partially result from regulating Th1/Th17/Treg cell responses by activating PPAR-α/LXR-β signaling. These data suggest that fenofibrate may be a novel class of therapeutic agent for SS-associated dacryoadenitis.

Objectives: To evaluate the anatomy of the nasolacrimal duct and the adjacent maxillary bone thickness using multislice computed tomography. Methods: Tomographic images of 92 individuals (184 sides) were analyzed according to sex, side, and sagittal (Class I, II, and III) and vertical (mesocephalic, brachycephalic, and dolichocephalic) skeletal patterns. The largest diameters of the nasolacrimal duct and the thickness of the adjacent maxillary bone were measured when the lacrimomaxillary suture was completely visible. In addition, the measurements were performed 2 mm above and below the midpoint. The maxillary bone and nasolacrimal duct measurements were analyzed by one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post-hoc test. Results: Females had a significantly narrower lacrimal duct at the midpoint (p=0.026) and 2 mm above it (p=0.025). Maxillary bone thickness was greater in Class II individuals compared to Class I at the midpoint (p=0.012) and 2 mm above it (p=0.027). The dolichocephalic group had greater maxillary bone thickness at the midpoint (p=0.014) and 2 mm below it (p=0.005) compared to the brachycephalic group. Maxillary bone thickness was greater in mesocephalic individuals compared to dolichocephalic individuals (p=0.04). Conclusions: Brachycephalic Class I individuals have lower maxillary bone thickness adjacent to the nasolacrimal duct, which increases the risk of injury during the bone fixation process.

The current study aimed to assess and compare the bacteriological spectrum of acute and chronic dacryocystitis and the antibiotic susceptibility and resistance of the causative pathogens to commonly used antimicrobials. This was a prospective observational study. Cases of dacryocystitis were categorized as acute or chronic, based on clinical features. Specimens were obtained by sterile cotton swabs from the lower conjunctival fornix and from the puncta by applying pressure over the lacrimal sac area or by performing lacrimal syringing. Specimens were inoculated on appropriate culture media and incubated at 37ºC for 24-48 hours. Bacterial species were identified based on colony morphology and standard biochemical tests. Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing was assessed by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion technique using Mueller Hinton agar following Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Out of 50 patients, 37 (74%) had chronic dacryocystitis and 13 (26%) had acute dacryocystitis. 35 bacterial species were recovered. Gram-positive organisms were the most isolated organisms i.e., 27 out of 35 (77.2%). In chronic dacryocystitis, the predominant bacterial species were Staphylococcus epidermidis (36%). In acute dacryocystitis, the predominant bacterial species were Staphylococcus aureus (40%). Against gram-positive organisms, Vancomycin and Linezolid were most effective (100%). Against gram-negative bacterial species, Amikacin was most effective (100%). High prevalence rate of antibiotic resistance was found, with 40% of the total bacterial species resistant to 5 or more antibiotics. The alarming rate of multi-drug resistance underscores the imperative need for tailored antibiotic strategies and continuous monitoring. Evidence based antibiotic therapy may also help to prevent failures of DCR, progression to chronicity and antibiotic resistance.

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]

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This study aims to report an acute dacryocystitis associated with Raoultella planticola infection. The patient's medical records and laboratory were thoroughly assessed. A thorough literature search was performed in PubMed database. An additional search was made in Google Scholar to complete the collected items. This is the first recorded case of acute dacryocystitis attributed to Raoultella planticola infection. A limited number of studies has related this pathogen with conjunctivitis. Acute dacryocystitis on rare occasions can also be caused by atypical organisms. Swabs must be obtained and patients must be started on empirical treatment while waiting for the laboratory results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI) is a generic patient recorded outcome measure assessing the quality of life of patients undergoing ear nose and troth surgery. Although largely used in the clinical practice, it has never been adapted and validated in the Italian language. The aim of the study was to translate the original GBI from English to Italian and to examine its reliability for use in the Italian adult population of patients undergoing endonasal endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy. After translation and back-translation of the original English we evaluated the reliability of GBI for use in 79 Italian adults undergoing dacryocystorhinostomies. Reliability of GBI-IT was examined by the internal consistency of the scale (using the Cronbach's alpha coefficient), and by the test–retest analysis. The GBI-IT showed adequate internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.85 for the total scale). The total GBI-IT score showed a strong correlation in retests (CCC 0.87). In conclusion, our study showed that the GBI-IT has satisfactory internal consistency and reliability and is equivalent to the original English version. In addition, it can be considered a valuable measure for both clinical and research uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to assess and compare the bacteriological spectrum of acute and chronic dacryocystitis and the antibiotic susceptibility and resistance of the causative pathogens to commonly used antimicrobials. This was a prospective observational study. Cases of dacryocystitis were categorized as acute or chronic, based on clinical features. Specimens were obtained by sterile cotton swabs from the lower conjunctival fornix and from the puncta by applying pressure over the lacrimal sac area or by performing lacrimal syringing. Specimens were inoculated on appropriate culture media and incubated at 37ºC for 24-48 hours. Bacterial species were identified based on colony morphology and standard biochemical tests. Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing was assessed by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion technique using Mueller Hinton agar following Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Out of 50 patients, 37 (74%) had chronic dacryocystitis and 13 (26%) had acute dacryocystitis. 35 bacterial species were recovered. Gram-positive organisms were the most isolated organisms i.e., 27 out of 35 (77.2%). In chronic dacryocystitis, the predominant bacterial species were Staphylococcus epidermidis (36%). In acute dacryocystitis, the predominant bacterial species were Staphylococcus aureus (40%). Against gram-positive organisms, Vancomycin and Linezolid were most effective (100%). Against gram-negative bacterial species, Amikacin was most effective (100%). High prevalence rate of antibiotic resistance was found, with 40% of the total bacterial species resistant to 5 or more antibiotics. The alarming rate of multi-drug resistance underscores the imperative need for tailored antibiotic strategies and continuous monitoring. Evidence based antibiotic therapy may also help to prevent failures of DCR, progression to chronicity and antibiotic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 61-year-old man with no significant past medical history presented to a quaternary ophthalmic referral center with acute right-sided medial canthal pain, periorbital edema, and erythema despite oral antibiotic therapy. CT imaging confirmed the presence of right preseptal cellulitis and lacrimal sac aspiration identified Enterobacter cloacae. A diagnosis of acute right-sided dacryocystitis with preseptal cellulitis was made. He was successfully treated with broadening of antibiotic therapy to intravenous meropenem. Symptomatic resolution was noted on follow-up without evidence of disease recurrence. This unusual case of Enterobacter cloacae dacryocystitis and preseptal cellulitis highlights the increasing prevalence and challenges of treating these uncommon organisms. [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]

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Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exhibit beneficial effects on autoimmune dacryoadenitis. However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) on rabbit autoimmune dacryoadenitis, an animal model of Sjögrens syndrome (SS) dry eye, and explored whether the effects of MSCs were related to their modulation on macrophage polarization. We have showed that systemic infusion of hUC-MSCs after disease onset efficiently diminished the chronic inflammation in diseased LGs and improved the clinical symptoms. Further analysis revealed that hUC-MSC treatment significantly inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophage markers iNOS, TNF-α and IL-6, and promoted the expression of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage markers Arg1, CD206, IL-10, IL-4 and TGF-β in LGs. Mechanistically, hUC-MSCs activated AKT pathway in macrophages, resulting in upregulation of M2-associated molecule Arg1, which was partly abolished by PI3K inhibitor, LY294002. Together, our data indicated that hUC-MSCs can skew macrophages into an M2 phenotype via affecting AKT pathway. These data may provide a new insight into the mechanisms of hUC-MSCs in the therapy of SS dry eye.

Background: Chronic dacryocystitis is a constant menace to delicate ocular structures. If left untreated, it can lead to sight as well as life-threatening complications. However, such complications may be prevented by timely intervention along with appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis. The objectives are to investigate the current bacterial community profile in adult patients with chronic dacryocystitis attending a referral eye care center in Odisha and to determine their drug susceptibility pattern to commonly used antimicrobial agents. Materials and Methods: An observational study was conducted on 70 adult patients with chronic dacryocystitis. The discharge from the punctum was collected by doing a regurgitation test or lacrimal passage irrigation and sent for microbiological analysis. Results: Out of 70 samples collected, 54 (77.1%) samples showed bacterial growth after 24–48 h of incubation. Among various isolates recovered, 68.5% were gram-positive and 27.8% were gram-negative organisms. Staphylococcus aureus was found to be the most common isolate among gram-positive, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was most common among gram-negative organisms. Among all drugs used in the susceptibility test; amikacin, piperacilin + tazobactam, and netilmycin were found to be most sensitive and cefixime, and amoxycilin + clavulinic acid was found to be most resistant to gram-positive as well as for gram-negative organisms. Conclusion: Knowledge about the microbiological profile and the drug susceptibility pattern responsible for chronic dacryocystitis in a geographical area is important and should be kept in mind while treating these patients.