A Case of Bilateral Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Cysts Presenting as Neonatal Respiratory Distress / 대한주산의학회잡지

ABSTRACT

Congenital nasolacrimal duct cyst is an uncommon anomaly of nasolacrimal duct obstruction in the newborn. It is cystic dilation of the lower end of the unperforated nasolacrimal duct with intranasal extension. In such cases, the bluish-gray cyst arises beneath the inferior turbinate on nasal endoscopy. A large nasolacrimal duct cyst can fill the nasal cavity and lead to nasal obstruction. Neonates are obligate nasal breathers at birth and require several weeks to learn to breathe through the mouth. Consequently this nasal obstruction can cause significant respiratory distress. We experienced a case of bilateral nasolacrimal duct cyst presenting as neonatal respiratory distress. Diagnosis was confirmed by nasal endoscopy and CT scan. After endoscopic marsupialization of the cysts , symptom and sign of respiratory distress were rapidly resolved.