Efficacy of mitomycin C in modified transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy / Eficácia da mitomicina C na dacriocistorrinostomia transcanalicular com laser diodo modificada

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of mitomycin C in anatomical and functional success after modified transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy. Methods: A prospective, double-blinded, randomized placebo-controlled study compared the effect of topical mitomycin C on modified transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy. Group 1 had modified transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy with topical saline, while Group 2 had modified transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy with topical mitomycin C. Success was defined as anatomical patency and relief of symptoms at the end of 6 months. Results: Six months after surgery, Group 1 (30 patients) showed anatomical and functional success rates of 86.7% and 83.3%, respectively. Group 2 (32 patients) showed anatomical and functional success rates of 87.5% and 84.3%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups 1 and 2 (p = 1.000). Conclusion: The use of mitomycin C did not improve the anatomical and functional success rates of modified transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy compared to placebo.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da mitomicina C no sucesso anatômico e funcional após dacriocistorrinostomia transcanalicular com laser de diodo. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo, duplo-cego, randomizado e controlado por placebo. Comparou o efeito da mitomicina C tópica na dacriocistorrinostomia transcanalicular com laser de diodo. No Grupo 1, foi utilizada apenas solução salina tópica, enquanto no Grupo 2 foi utilizada mitomicina C tópica. O sucesso foi definido como permeabilidade da via lacrimal e alívio dos sintomas ao final de 6 meses. Resultados: Seis meses após a cirurgia, o Grupo 1 (30 pacientes) apresentou taxas de sucesso anatômico e funcional de 86,7% e 83,3%, respectivamente. O Grupo 2 (32 pacientes) apresentou taxas de sucesso anatômico e funcional de 87,5% e 84,3%, respectivamente. Não houve diferença estatística significante entre os Grupos 1 e 2 (p=1,000). Conclusão: O uso de mitomicina C não melhora as taxas de sucesso anatômico e funcional do dacriocistorrinostomia transcanalicular com laser de diodo em comparação ao placebo.

Rhinosporidiosis of the lacrimal sac masquerading as chronic dacryocystitis: a rare presentation

Rhinosporidiosis is a chronic infection of the mucous membrane caused by the Rhinosporiduim seeberi, which infects through transepithelial penetration. Although described worldwide, this entity is mostly found in the western hemisphere, afflicting young people, predominantly males, associated in many cases with recreational or professional contact with bath in ponds, rivers, or stagnant waters. The clinical features are varied depending on the affected membrane, in some cases mimicking other diseases postponing the correct diagnosis. Although nasal obstruction and epistaxis are the common clinical presentations in sinonasal rhinosporidiosis, patients with epiphora without a nasal mass often challenge the diagnosis. In the present case, we have documented a case of isolated lacrimal sac rhinosporidiosis masquerading as chronic dacryocystitis, which was successfully managed by endoscopic excision, accompanied by a literature review.

Isolated Meningitis and Lacrimal Gland Abscess due to Odontogenic Sinusitis: Case Report / Meningitis Aislada y Absceso de la Glándula Lagrimal debido a Sinusitis Odontogénica: Reporte de un Caso

ABSTRACT: Our objective was report an extremely rare case of isolated meningitis and suppurative dacrioadenitis as consequences of odontogenic sinusitis. We describe the diagnostic tools including imaging and culture, as well as surgical treatment and follow-up. Our final diagnosis was odontogenic sinusitis caused by Streptococcus Anginosus complicated by isolated meningitis and lacrimal gland abscess. Urgent surgical treatment to restore the paranasal sinuses and drainage of the lacrimal gland was performed. Culture from purulent material collected from maxillary sinus indicated the targeted therapy. Clinical assessment and imaging obtained 20 days after surgery demonstrated successful results. This case emphasizes the importance of evaluating intracranial complications of rinosinusitis, the need to search for a dental infection when a maxillary sinusitis is encountered, the key role of a thorough diagnostic workup in order to plan a comprehensive and effective surgical treatment, as well as targeted medical therapy.

RESUMEN: En este estudio se informa un caso extremadamente raro de meningitis aislada y dacrioadenitis supurativa, como consecuencia de sinusitis odontogénica. Describimos las herramientas de diagnóstico que incluyen imágenes y cultivo, como también el tratamiento quirúrgico y el seguimiento. El diagnóstico final fue de sinusitis odontogénica causada por estreptococo anginoso complicado por una meningitis aislada y el absceso de la glándula lagrimal. Se realizó un tratamiento quirúrgico de urgencia para restaurar los senos paranasales y drenar la glándula lagrimal. Se determinó el tratamiento de acuerdo a los resultados de cultivo del seno maxilar. La evaluación clínica y las imágenes obtenidas 20 días después de la cirugía demostraron resultados exitosos. Es importante la evaluación de las complicaciones intracraneales de la rinosinusitis además de la necesidad de considerar una infección dental frente a una sinusitis maxilar. Por otra parte, es clave una evaluación exhaustiva de diagnóstico para planificar un tratamiento quirúrgico completo y efectivo, así como el tratamiento médico.

Quiste congénito del conducto nasolacrimal/dacrio-cistocele: causa de dacriocistitis no diagnosticada / Congenital cyst of nasolacrimal duct/dacriocistocele: cause of non-diagnosed dacriocistitis

RESUMEN Se presenta dos casos de pacientes menores de 5 meses los cuales durante las primeras semanas de vida presentan descarga ocular muco-purulenta de manera recurrente. Posteriormente en la endoscopia se encuentra en los dos casos masas quísticas intranasales dando un diagnóstico de dacriocistocele más quiste congénito del conducto nasolagrimal. El dacriocistocele es una causa muy rara de obstrucción del conducto nasal y más raro cuando viene acompañado de un quiste congénito del conducto nasolagrimal. Debido a su rareza y a su sintomatología muchas veces atípica resulta en un diagnóstico complicado para el otorrinolaringólogo y para el oftalmólogo.

ABSTRACT Two cases of patients younger than 5 months are presented, who during the first weeks of life have recurrent muco-purulent ocular dis-charge. Subsequently, in endoscopy, in both cases, intranasal cystic masses were found, resulting in a diagnosis of dacryocystocele plus congenital cyst of the lacrimal duct. Dacryocystocele is an uncommon cause of nasal duct obstruction, but it becomes less common when accompanied by a congenital tear duct cyst. Due to its uncommonness and its often-atypical symptoms, it results in a complicated diagnosis for the ENT and the ophthalmologist.

Review of a novel disease entity, immunoglobulin G4-related disease

Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related dacryoadenitis and sialoadenitis (IgG4-DS) are part of a multiorgan fibroinflammatory condition of unknown etiology termed IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD), which has been recognized as a single diagnostic entity for less than 15 years. Histopathologic examination is critical for diagnosis of IgG4-RD. CD4+ T and B cells, including IgG4-expressing plasma cells, constitute the major inflammatory cell populations in IgG4-RD and are thought to cause organ damage and tissue fibrosis. Patients with IgG4-RD who have active, untreated disease exhibit significant increase of IgG4-secreting plasmablasts in the blood. Considerable insight into the immunologic mechanisms of IgG4-RD has been achieved in the last decade using novel molecular biology approaches, including next-generation and single-cell RNA sequencing. Exploring the interactions between CD4+ T cells and B lineage cells is critical for understanding the pathophysiology of IgG4-RD. Establishment of pathogenic T cell clones and identification of antigens specific to these clones constitutes the first steps in determining the pathogenesis of the disease. Herein, the clinical features and mechanistic insights regarding pathogenesis of IgG4-RD were reviewed.

Valor del ultrasonido en el diagnóstico de los tumores del saco lagrimal / Value of the ultrasound in the diagnosis of lacrimal sac tumor

RESUMEN Los tumores del saco lagrimal son extremadamente raros, y el benigno primario más común es el papiloma escamoso. Clínicamente se manifiestan como una zona de tumefacción en la región cantal medial, asociado a epifora y dacriocistitis crónica-recurrente. Dentro de las pruebas de imagen recomendadas están: dacriocistografía, tomografía computarizada, resonancia magnética y dacrioescintifotografía. Sin embargo, muy pocos sugieren el uso del ultrasonido. Se presenta el caso de un papiloma mixto del saco lagrimal diagnosticado por ultrasonido. Se trata de una paciente femenina de 39 años, quien fue remitida por cuadros repetidos de dacriocistitis derecha en los últimos 3 años. En consulta se constató celulitis preseptal ipsolateral, por lo que se indicó antibiótico-terapia, y se logró la remisión de los signos inflamatorios agudos, pero persistió el aumento del volumen cantal medial derecho. La vía lagrimal se exploró y se comprobó que estaba obstruida. Se realizó ultrasonido, donde el saco lagrimal derecho apareció ocupado por una masa ecogénica, que se extendía al conducto lacrimonasal y mostraba ligera vascularidad. Seguidamente se hizo tomografía computarizada, y se confirmaron los hallazgos ecográficos, pero sin lograr delimitar la lesión intrasaco descrita, aún tras la administración de contraste yodado endovenoso. Se sugirió dacriocistitis crónica derecha, secundaria al tumor intrasaco de aspecto benigno, probable papiloma, por lo que se efectuó cirugía y examen histopatológico que ratificaron dicho diagnóstico. En conclusión, el ultrasonido del saco lagrimal es un método complementario de gran valor, que en algunos casos hará el diagnóstico, y en otros brindará información que optimizará la decisión de quienes serían tributarios a estudios más complejos(AU)

ABSTRACT Lacrimal sac tumors are extremely rare, and the most common benign primary is squamous papilloma. Clinically, they manifest as a zone of swelling in the medial canthal region, associated with epiphora and chronic-recurrent dacryocystitis. Among the recommended imaging tests are dacryostography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and dacryoscintifotography. However, very few suggest the use of ultrasound. The case of a mixed papilloma of the lacrimal sac diagnosed by ultrasound is presented. This is a 39-year-old female patient, who was referred for repeated cases of right dacryocystitis in the last three years. In consultation, ipsolateral preseptal cellulitis was found, for which antibiotic therapy was indicated, and the remission of acute inflammatory signs was achieved, but the increase in right medial canthal volume persisted. The lacrimal duct was explored and found to be obstructed. Ultrasound was performed, where the right lacrimal sac appeared occupied by an echogenic mass, which extended to the lacrimal duct and showed slight vascularity. Subsequently, computed tomography was performed, and the ultrasound findings were confirmed, but without defining the described intrasaccal lesion, even after administration of intravenous iodinated contrast. It was suggested chronic right dacryocystitis, secondary to apparently benign intrasaccal tumor, probable papilloma, so surgery and histopathological examination were performed, which that ratified the diagnosis. In conclusion, ultrasound of the lacrimal sac is a complementary method of great value, which in some cases will make the diagnosis, while in others it will provide information that will optimize the decision of those who would be candidate to more complex studies(AU)

Esporotricose ocular: manifestações atípicas / Ocular sporotrichosis: atypical manifestations

Resumo A esporotricose humana e animal é uma infecção subaguda a crônica causada pelo fungo dimórfico Sporothrix schenckii. A esporotricose ocular tem ganhado destaque em função da epidemia de esporotricose urbana enfrentada pelo estado do Rio de Janeiro na última década e se apresenta classicamente como conjuntivite granulomatosa, mas formas atípicas podem ocorrer. Este artigo tem por objetivo relatar 2 casos atípicos de esporotricose ocular em pacientes imunocompetentes, ambos apresentando quadro clínico compatível com a síndrome oculoglandular de Parinaud associada à dacriocistite em um caso e presumivelmente à coroidite no outro caso.

Abstract Human and animal sporotrichosis is an infection caused by the dimorphic fungus Sporothrix schenckii, which is classified from subacute to chronic. Ocular sporotrichosis has been highlighted due to the epidemic of urban sporotrichosis faced by the state of Rio de Janeiro in the last decade and presents classically as granulomatous conjunctivitis, but atypical forms may occur. This article aims to report two atypical cases of ocular sporotrichosis in immunocompetent patients, both presenting a clinical picture compatible with Parinaud oculoglandular syndrome associated with dacryocystitis in one case and presumably to choroiditis in the other case.

A Case of Acute Dacryocystitis Diagnosed after Surgical Treatment of Orbital Cellulitis and Orbital Abscess

PURPOSE: We report a case of acute dacryocystitis diagnosed with abscess and rupture of lacrimal sac and fistula to posterior orbit during the operation. CASE SUMMARY: A 71-year-old woman visited our clinic with edema and pain in the eyelid from three days ago. For past four months, there was viscous of the left eye and tears. The patient had severe conjunctival chemosis and hyperemia, compared with the left eyelid edema and redness. Orbital CT scan showed orbital cellulitis, which was followed by systemic antibiotics and steroid therapy. On the 4th day of therapy, orbital abscess formation was observed in orbit MRI and surgical drainage was planned. During surgery, we found rupture of the posterior part of lacrimal sac and fistula to posterior orbit. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was identified in the bacterial cultures, and after the administration of appropriate antibiotics, the disease showed improved progress, and then additional dacryocystorhinostomy was performed. CONCLUSIONS: In our case, acute dacryocystitis rarely spread in orbit, which may lead to delayed diagnosis, orbital cellulitis and abscess, resulting in serious complications of vision threat. So, we think that it is necessary to consider surgical treatment more actively in the stage of chronic dacryocysitis.

Outcome of External Dacryocystorhinostomy and Monocanalicular Intubation in Patients with Total Obstruction of One Canalicus

PURPOSE: We sought to evaluate the outcomes of external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) and mono-canalicular intubation in patients with total obstruction of one canalicus. METHODS: Sixteen eyes of 16 patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction and a single canaliculus obstruction who had undergone external DCR and monocanalicular intubation of the intact canaliculus were retrospectively included in the present study. The monocanalicular tube (Mini Monoka) was left in place for at least two months. Munk epiphora grading for the evaluation of epiphora and irrigation was performed both preoperatively and at 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 46 ± 14.2 (range, 18 to 76) years. The inferior canaliculus was obstructed in nine eyes (group A) and the superior canaliculus was obstructed in seven eyes (group B), respectively. Eight eyes had chronic dacryocystitis and two of these eyes also had a history of acute dacryocystitis attack. Mean preoperative Munk scores were 3.89 in group A and 4.0 in group B. Ocular surface irritation occurred in one eye in group A. Artificial eye drops were prescribed and early tube removal was not performed. Spontaneous tube dislocation was recorded in one eye in group B. No other corneal, punctal, or canalicular complications were found. At six months, irrigation of intact canaliculus was patent in all eyes. Mucoid discharge, conjunctival hyperemia, and chronic conjunctivitis were also resolved. Postoperative Munk scores were 1.11 ± 0.9 in group A and 0.86 ± 0.9 in group B. Of note, preoperative and postoperative Munk scores were significantly different in both groups (group A, p = 0.006; group B, p = 0.017). The postoperative Munk scores were not statistically different between the two groups (p = 0.606). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction and a total of one canaliculus obstruction, external DCR and monocanalicular intubation of the intact canaliculus is an effective surgical option.

Primary Marginal Zone B-cell Lymphoma of Mucosa-associated Lymphoid Tissue of the Lacrimal Sac Mimicking Dacryocystitis

PURPOSE: We report a case of a young female patient who was diagnosed with a marginal zone B-cell lymphoma of the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT lymphoma) of the lacrimal sac which mimicked dacrocystitis. CASE SUMMARY: A 23-year-old female suffered from epiphora for 3 years in the right eye. She had swelling and a painful lesion at the lacrimal sac 4 months prior and was referred to our hospital due to nasolacrimal duct obstruction and dacryocystitis. Lacrimal irrigation was performed with no passing and regurgitation with mucoid discharge. We performed orbital computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging which showed a suspected tumor of the lacrimal sac in the right eye. We then performed excision and biopsy of the tumor through the skin approach. The patient was diagnosed with a MALT lymphoma with no systemic involvement. After six cycles of chemotherapy involving rituximab with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone, the lesion of the mass and the painful symptoms decreased, which was regarded as a complete response. However, epiphora and eye discharge persisted, showing a nasolacrimal duct obstruction, so we performed endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy with a lacrimal sac biopsy. The histological examination showed chronic inflammation, but not lymphoma. There was no recurrence of lymphoma at one year postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: If there is an epiphora and palpable lesion in the lacrimal sac area, MALT lymphoma mimicking dacyocystitis may be suspected. After the lymphoma is first diagnosed by excision and biopsy, systemic chemotherapy with dacryocystorhinostomy could be an effective treatment.

Ultrasound parameters of normal lacrimal sac and chronic dacryocystitis / Parâmetros ultrassonográficos do saco lacrimal normal e na dacriocistite crônica

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compared the ultrasound findings of the lacrimal sac between subjects with normal lacrimal systems those with chronic dacryocystitis. Methods: A retrospective study of 10 subjects with a normal lacrimal system (Group 1) and 10 with chronic dacryocystitis (Group 2) diagnosed according to B-mode ultrasound with a 10-MHz transducer and the direct-contact technique (AVISO, Quantel Medical) for lacrimal sac assessment. We analyzed the dimensions, features, and content of the sacs. Characteristics of the population: female: 6, Group 1; 8, Group 2; mean age 48.4 years (SD=19.9; range, 22-80 years), Group 1; 50.5 years (SD=15.5; range, 25-75 years), Group 2. Results: The dimensions of the lacrimal sac were as follows: anteroposterior 1.86 and 10.99 mm in Groups 1 and 2, respectively, p<0.0001; vertical 9.79 and 14.13 mm in Groups 1 and 2, respectively, p=0.049. Qualitative evaluation of the lacrimal sac contents showed hypoechogenic content in Group 1 (10, 100%) and hyperechogenic punctiform content in Group 2 (10, 100%) with partial filling in seven cases (70%). Conclusions: Ultrasonography can differentiate normal lacrimal sacs from sacs compromised by chronic dacryocystitis, thus being useful as an adjunct to clinical examination and surgical planning.

RESUMO Objetivo: Categorizar os achados ultrassonográficos do saco lacrimal em indivíduos com via lacrimal normal e em portadores de dacriocistite crônica. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo de 20 indivíduos, 10 com via lacrimal normal (Grupo 1) e 10 com diagnóstico de dacriocistite crônica (Grupo 2) utilizando ultrassonografia modo B com transdutor de 10 MHz e técnica de contato (Aviso, Quantel Medical) para avaliar o saco lacrimal. Analisamos os seguintes parâmetros: dimensões, características e conteúdo. Resultados: Características da população estudada: sexo feminino: 6, Grupo 1; 8, Grupo 2; idade média: 48,4 anos (DP=19,93; variação, 22 a 80 anos), Grupo 1; 50,5 anos (DP=15,47; variação, 25 a 75 anos), Grupo 2. As dimensões do saco lacrimal foram aferidas: anteroposterior, 1,86 mm no Grupo 1 e 10,99 mm no Grupo 2, p<0,0001; vertical, 9,79 mm no Grupo 1 e 14,13 mm no Grupo 2, p=0,049. A avaliação qualitativa do conteúdo do saco lacrimal mostrou: conteúdo hipoecogênico no Grupo 1 (10, 100%); e conteúdo puntiforme hiperecogênico no Grupo 2 (10, 100%), com preenchimento parcial em 7 casos (70%). Conclusão: A ultrassonografia foi capaz de diferenciar a via lacrimal normal da acometida por dacriocistite crônica, e de determinar parâmetros úteis para suportar o acompanhamento clínico ou auxiliar no planejamento cirúrgico.

Characteristics in Patients with and without Previous Dacryocystitis and Satisfaction after Endonasal Dacryocystorhinostomy

PURPOSE: To compare characteristics in patients with and without previous dacryocystitis and satisfaction after endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 156 eyes of 116 patients who underwent endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy at our Hospital from May 2011 to December 2015. The patients were grouped into those with pre-operative dacryocystitis and those without dacryocystitis. Each patient group was characterized retrospectively, followed by a telephone survey regarding post-operative satisfaction. RESULTS: Fifty-eight patients (66 eyes) had dacryocystitis, whereas 58 patients (90 eyes) did not. Patients' mean age was 64.9 years old. The mean duration of symptoms in patients with and without dacryocystitis was 11 and 20 months, respectively, showing a statistically significant difference (p 0.05). Post-operative satisfaction was higher in patients with dacryocystitis, showing a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with pre-operative dacryocystitis were characterized by a shorter duration of symptoms and higher post-operative satisfaction. This finding implies that post-operative satisfaction could be lower in patients without dacryocystitis, which should be noted.

Analysis of Microorganisms and Antibiotics Susceptibility in Dacryocystitis

PURPOSE: This article analyzes the microorganisms and antibiotics susceptibility in dacryocystitis. METHODS: In this study, patients who were diagnosed with acute and chronic dacryocystitis with nasolacrimal duct obstruction were selected and underwent endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy. Cultures were obtained from the lacrimal sac during operation from January 2008 to January 2016, and were used to analyze the microorganisms and antibiotics susceptibility. RESULTS: The 67 patients, 9 were diagnosed with acute dacryocystitis and 58 were diagnosed with chronic dacryocystitis. Among them, 64 cases showed bacterial growth (95.5%). The most frequently detected bacteria was Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) (33.8%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) (25.4%) and Enterobacter aerogenes (18.3%). S. epidermidis had the most powerful resistance to ciprofloxacin compared to the other bacteria (58.3%, p = 0.02). Except for S. epidermidis and S. aureus, the other bacteria responded to ciprofloxacin and gentamycin. CONCLUSIONS: As a causative microorganism of dacryocystitis, S. epidermidis is becoming more prominent, and it is thought that S. epidermidis may be resistant to quinolones (i.e., broad-spectrum antibiotics). This resistance might be increasing the percentage of present S. epidermidis when viewed as a causal pathogen in dacryocystitis.

An Unusual Case of Orbital Inflammation Preceding Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus

PURPOSE: To present a case of orbital inflammation and optic perineuritis preceding vesicular eruption in herpes zoster ophthalmicus(HZO). CASE SUMMARY: An 84-year-old woman with a history of gall bladder cancer and hypertension complained of left periorbital erythematous edema and discomfort. On examination, visual acuity was 20/25 bilaterally; no tenderness, proptosis or ophthalmoplegia was observed. Pupils were equal, round, and reactive to light without relative afferent pupillary defects. Slit-lamp examination revealed severe conjunctival injection and chemosis without keratitis or uveitis. The remainder of the ocular examination was unremarkable. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed left-sided preseptal swelling with an enlarged left lacrimal gland, high signal intensity of the retrobulbar fat and optic nerve sheath. Systemic antibiotic therapy with steroids was started under a presumed diagnosis of idiopathic orbital inflammatory disease, but the clinical presentation was unresolved. After 2 days, vesicular lesions confined to the first division of the trigeminal nerve and pseudodendritic keratitis developed on the left side leading to a diagnosis of HZO. Treatment with acyclovir immediately resolved anterior segment inflammation and periorbital edema. While on therapy, visual acuity deteriorated to 20/125 and the pupil became dilated and unresponsive to light over a few days. All signs and symptoms of acute orbitopathy and postherpetic neuralgia had resolved 3 months later with the exception of pupil abnormality and visual acuity. CONCLUSIONS: HZO may present with symptoms and signs of orbital inflammation and optic perineuritis even in the absence of a vesicular rash. Thus, HZO should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained acute orbital syndromes.

A Case of Fungal Ball Causing Acute Dacryocystitis

PURPOSE: We report a case of fungal ball after Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in a 40-year-old female patient. CASE SUMMARY: A 40-year-old female patient was admitted to our hospital for left lower eyelid tenderness and bloody discharge from the lacrimal punctum. During a planned endoscopic DCR, the sac was opened after the osteotomy, and 2 fungal balls were found in the lacrimal sac. The masses were 7 × 5 mm and, 9 × 5 mm sized, irregularly shaped, and red in color. Aspergillus fumigatus was diagnosed pathologically. Postoperative paranasal sinus magnetic resonance imaging showed no residual fungal ball. During follow-up, the patient showed patent rhinostomy opening, and there was no evidence of fungal infection on nasal endoscopic finding. CONCLUSIONS: Although Aspergillus fumigatus is a rare cause of canalicular obstruction, fungal ball development in the lacrimal sac can cause acute dacryocystitis.

Clinical Characteristics of Lacrimal Sac Tumors: Report of Ten Cases

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To review our experience with lacrimal sac tumors in an effort to identify features, to evaluate the results of various methods of management, and to compare our data with previous studies. METHODS: We reviewed the medical records of all patients with lacrimal sac tumors who were managed in our institution between January 1990 and December 2015. The pre-operative clinical data, imaging, operation notes, and follow-up records were reviewed for each patient. RESULTS: The study group consisted of four men and six women with a mean age of 47.6 years. Most patients experienced long-standing epiphora, for a mean period of 20 months. Two of the tumors were benign, and eight of them were malignant. The benign tumors were treated with dacryocystectomy. All but one malignant tumor were treated with medial or total maxillectomy. Adjuvant radiotherapy was administered to four patients with malignant tumors. In the eight patients with malignant tumors, the mean follow-up period was 65 months. CONCLUSIONS: Important characteristics of lacrimal sac tumors include dacryocystitis, epiphora, and in some cases, a palpable medial canthal area mass. Wide en bloc resection via medial or total maxillectomy and/or postoperative radiotherapy are proper treatments for malignant lesions of the lacrimal sac.

Dacryoliths causing intermittent epiphora associated with a patent lacrimal system / Dacriolitíase causando epífora intermitente associada a um sistema lacrimal de patente

ABSTRACT We present two patients with dacryoliths and patent lacrimal drainage with intermittent tearing and without infection. Dacryoliths can be present in the lacrimal sac or lacrimal duct without acute or chronic inflammation. In these cases, we believe dacryolith formation was a causative factor of intermittent epiphora even with a patent drainage system, and we propose that dacryoliths and even fungal colonization formation may be the first event before dacryocystitis and should be considered as a cause of epiphora.

RESUMO Apresentamos dois pacientes com dacriolitíase e drenagem lacrimal patente com lacrimejamento intermitente, sem infecção. Os dacriolitos podem estar presentes no saco lacrimal ou duto lacrimal, sem inflamação aguda ou crônica. Neste caso nós acreditamos que a dacriolitíase foi um fator causador da epífora intermitente mesmo com sistema de drenagem patente e propomos que dacriolitíase e até mesmo a colonização fúngica pode ser o primeiro evento antes dacriocistite, e deve ser adicionada como uma das causas de epífora.

Dacriocistorrinostomía externa: resultados en un año de experiencia en Villa / External dacryocystorhinostomy: outcomes achieved in one-year experience in Villa Clara province

Objetivo: describir los resultados de la cirugía dacriocistorrinostomía externa en un año. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo longitudinal prospectivo en 25 pacientes, 28 ojos. Se consideraron las variables sexo, color de piel, edad, lado afectado, etiología, complicaciones y resultados de la cirugía. Resultados: hubo 7 pacientes masculinos y 18 femeninos; de ellos, 16 blancos y 9 no blancos con una diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p= 0,043). La edad promedio fue de 69 ± 11 años. En 13 pacientes (52,0 por ciento) se afectó el lado izquierdo y en el 68,0 por ciento la etiología fue involutiva con significación estadística (p= 0,0003). El sangramiento transoperatorio se presentó como complicación en el 24,0 por ciento de los pacientes. El 92,0 por ciento refirió mejoría de la sintomatología después de operados. Según el criterio del cirujano, la mejoría objetiva se obtuvo en el 88,0 por ciento de los casos. La dacriocistorrinostomía externa fue más frecuente en mujeres blancas encontradas entre su sexta y séptima década de vida. El lado izquierdo fue el más afectado con predominio de la etiología involutiva. Las complicaciones fueron escasas; dentro de ellas predominó el sangramiento transoperatorio. Conclusiones: la mayoría de los pacientes sintieron mejoría después de la cirugía; el criterio del cirujano estuvo a favor de los resultados positivos en la cirugía dacriocistorrinostomía externa(AU)

Objective: to describe the results of external dacryocystorhinostomy surgery in one year. Methods: a prospective, longitudinal descriptive and observational study was conducted in 28 patients from 25 patients. The study variables were gender, race, age, affected side, etiology, complications and surgery outcomes. Results: there were 7 male and 18 female patients, 16 Caucasians and 9 non-Caucasians with statistically significant difference (p= 0,043). The mean age was 69 ± 11 years. The obstruction involved the left side in 13 patients (52 percent) and involution was the main etiology in 68 percent with statistical significance (p= 0,0003). Perioperative bleeding was the main complication (24 percent). In the group, 92 percent said the symptoms had reduced after surgery, and according to the surgeon, objective improvement was attained in 88 percent of cases. Conclusion: external dacryocystorhinostomy was more frequent in Caucasian women aged 60 to 70 years. The left side was the most affected, with prevailing involution etiology. There were minimum complications, being perioperative bleeding predominant. Most of the patients felt better after surgery and the surgeon´s criteria were in favor of the positive results of this surgery(AU)

Sondaje de vías lagrimales previa dilatación canalicular con gel viscoelástico versus sondaje directo / Lachrymal duct probing after canalicular dilation with viscoelastic gel vs direct probing

Objetivo: comparar la técnica de sondaje de vías lagrimales previa dilatación canalicular con gel viscoelástico con el sondaje directo. Métodos: se realizó un estudio analítico prospectivo de cohorte no concurrente en 136 ojos pertenecientes a pacientes con obstrucción congénita del conducto lacrimonasal atendidos en la Consulta de Oftalmopediatría del Hospital Pediátrico Docente Pepe Portilla, de Pinar del Río, a quienes se les realizó sondaje de vía lagrimal, desde enero del año 2008 a julio de 2013. Se conformaron dos grupos de estudio, ambos de 68 ojos, uno con la técnica quirúrgica de sondaje directo, y un segundo grupo donde se aplicó dilatación previa de la vía excretora con gel viscoelástico. Resultados: en el primer grupo se presentaron complicaciones en el 45,59 por ciento. Se logró el 54,41 por ciento de curación y fue reintervenido el 32,35 por ciento. En el segundo grupo se logró el 97,92 por ciento de curación sin complicaciones incluyendo a 6 ojos de pacientes mayores de 3 años, y fue necesario reintervenir a un solo paciente. Conclusiones: el sondaje del conducto lacrimonasal previa dilatación con Healon minimiza las complicaciones y la necesidad de reintervención, y posibilita su empleo efectivo en pacientes mayores de 3 años(AU)

Objective: to compare the lachrymal duct probing technique after canalicular dilation canalicular with viscoelastic gel or with direct probing. Methods: prospective, analytical and non-concurrent cohort study carried out in 136 eyes from patients with congenital nasolachrymal duct obstruction, who were seen at the ophthalmological pediatric service in Pepe Portilla teaching pediatric hospital located in Pinar del Rio and who underwent lachrymal duct probing in the period of January, 2008 through July,2013. Two study groups were formed with 68 eyes each, one treated with direct probing, and the other with previous dilation of the excretory duct with viscoelastic gel. Results: the first group showed some complications in 45,59 percent of patients; 54,41 percent recovered and 32,35 percent were reoperated. In the second group, 97,92 percent managed to recover without complications, including 6 eyes from patients older than 3 years. It was necessary to re-operate a patient. Conclusions: nasolachrymal duct probing after dilation with Healon minimizes complications and need for reoperation, thus facilitating its use in patients aged over 3 years(AU)

Using thermography for an obstruction of the lower lacrimal system / Utilização da termografia de uma obstrução da via lacrimal baixa

ABSTRACT Obstructions in the lacrimal pathways quite often require accurate and reliable image scanning for confirmation and documentation. Infrared thermal imaging, known as thermography, is a resource that complements diagnosis; it does not require touching the patient or applying contrast materials and has been used in various medical procedures for decades. However, there have been few studies in the literature about its use in ophthalmology. In this paper, the authors have presented a case of dacryocystitis where the obstruction of the lacrimal punctum was so acute that conventional dacryocystography could not be used. The authors have successfully reported the use of thermography as a complementary propaedeutic and will discuss the method they used.

RESUMO As obstruções de vias lacrimais muitas vezes necessitam de exames de imagem precisos e confiáveis para confirmação e documentação diagnóstica. A imagem térmica por infravermelho, conhecida como termografia, é um recurso complementar diagnóstico sem contato e sem contraste, utilizada há décadas em diversas aplicações médicas. Porém, ainda são poucos os estudos na literatura sobre seu uso na oftalmologia. Neste trabalho os autores apresentam um caso de dacriocistite com obstrução dos pontos lacrimais onde não foi possível utilizar a técnica convencional de dacrioscistografia relatando o uso com sucesso da termografia como propedêutica complementar e discutem o método.