Bilateral Congenital Lacrimal Fistulae: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

✍ Scribed by Lei Zhuang; Christin L. Sylvester; Jeffrey P. Simons

• Publisher: John Wiley and Sons
• Year: 2010
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 646 KB
• Volume: 120
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0023-852X
• DOI: 10.1002/lary.21697

✦ Synopsis

The lacrimal system is comprised of the lacrimal glands for tear production and the lacrimal drainage system for draining tears away from the eyes. Congenital lacrimal system anomalies other than nasolacrimal duct obstruction are uncommon. Congenital lacrimal fistulae are a rare developmental anomaly, and when they occur, they are usually unilateral. Fistulae and diverticulae can originate from the canaliculus, lacrimal sac, or nasolacrimal duct. They can be seen externally as small orifices or pits located inferior and/or medial to the medial canthi. These anomalies are often asymptomatic and may go undetected. However, they can also present with epiphora or discharge.