Dacryocystitis

Dacryocystitis is an infection of the lacrimal sac, secondary to obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct. It can be acute or chronic. The term derives from the Greek words dakryon (tear), kystis (sac), and -itis (inflammation).

Causes

The most common cause of dacryocystitis is obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, including congenital abnormalities, trauma, infection, neoplasm, and aging.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dacryocystitis can include pain, redness, swelling, and discharge from the eye. In severe cases, it can also cause fever and general malaise.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of dacryocystitis is typically made based on the clinical presentation. Additional tests, such as imaging studies or culture of the discharge, may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and identify the causative organism.

Treatment

Treatment of dacryocystitis usually involves antibiotics to treat the infection. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve the obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for dacryocystitis is generally good. However, if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, such as cellulitis, abscess formation, or orbital cellulitis.

See also

• Lacrimal apparatus
• Nasolacrimal duct obstruction
• Epiphora

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