Dacryostenosis
Dacryostenosis is blockage of the drainage of tears from the eye, usually due to narrowing of the nasolacrimal ducts.
The nasolacrimal ducts are responsible for draining tears from the eye. Dacryostenosis can result from inadequate development of any part of the nasolacrimal ducts, chronic nasal infection, severe or recurring eye infections, or fractures of the nasal or facial bones.
Inadequate development of the nasolacrimal ducts at birth usually results in an overflow of tears that run down the cheek (epiphora). One eye or, rarely, both eyes are affected. The problem is usually first noticed in 3- to 12-week-old infants. This type of blockage usually disappears without treatment by the age of 6 months, as the nasolacrimal system develops. Sometimes the blockage resolves faster when parents are taught to gently massage the area above the duct with a fingertip.
Dacryostenosis may not resolve spontaneously and can lead to infection of the lacrimal sac (dacryocystitis).
If the blockage does not clear up, an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otorhinolaryngologist) or an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) may have to open the nasolacrimal duct with a small probe, which is usually inserted through the duct opening at the corner of the eyelid. Children are given general anesthesia for this procedure, but adults need only local anesthesia. If the nasolacrimal duct or gland is completely blocked, more extensive surgery may be needed.
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