J Korean Med Assoc.  2017 Sep;60(9):727-731. 10.5124/jkma.2017.60.9.727.

Definition and treatment of lacrimal drainage disease

• Lee JK

• KMID: 2389791
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2017.60.9.727

Abstract

Epiphora is one of the most common problems in ophthalmological practice, and is caused by dysfunction of the lacrimal pathway. The lacrimal drainage system is a continuous anatomical structure consisting of the lacrimal punctum, inferior and superior canaliculi, common canaliculus, lacrimal sac, and nasolacrimal duct. Lacrimal disease can be medically treated in case of acute inflammation or partial obstruction at the beginning of treatment, but surgical treatment is necessary in most cases. This paper discusses the etiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and surgical treatment of various lacrimal diseases through a selective review of the relevant literature. Advances in lacrimal duct surgery can now be performed in such a way that the structural integrity and normal physiological function of the entire efferent lacrimal pathway is preserved.

Keyword

Lacrimal apparatus diseases; Lacrimal duct obstruction; Dacryocystorhinostomy; Conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy

MeSH Terms

Dacryocystorhinostomy
Diagnosis
Drainage*
Inflammation
Lacrimal Apparatus
Lacrimal Apparatus Diseases
Lacrimal Duct Obstruction
Nasolacrimal Duct

Figure

• 

  Figure 1 Representative images of Digital subtraction dacryocystography and lacrimal scintigraphy. (A) Dacryocystography reveals partial and (B) complete nasolacrimal duct obstruction. (C) Lacrimal scintigraphy shows normal pathway and (D) pre-sac obstruction in both eyes.

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  Figure 2 Slit lamp examination of punctum. (A) Punctal stenosis in left lower lid is noted. (B) Dilated punctum after punctoplasty is observed.

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  Figure 3 Dacryoendoscopic view. Canaliculus (A), lacrimal sac, and entrance of nasolacrimal duct (B) is observed.

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