What is a lacrimal fistula?

Congenital lacrimal fistulas, also known as lacrimal anlage ducts, are supernumerary lacrimal canaliculi that connect the skin to the common canaliculus or the lacrimal sac (Figure 1). [1] These rare developmental abnormalities can lead to epiphora.

What causes lacrimal fistula?

Introduction A congenital lacrimal fistula is a rare developmental anomaly that is caused by an interruption in the em- bryogenesis of the nasolacrimal system. While it is often asymptomatic, some patients present with epiphora or discharge that requires surgical intervention.

How common is lacrimal fistula?

Congenital lacrimal fistulas are rare developmental anomalies of the nasolacrimal excretory system with an estimated incidence of one in 2,000 births. There is no sex or race predilection. Most of the fistulas are unilateral and typically located inferonasal to the medial canthal angle.

Is a lacrimal fistula normal?

Congenital lacrimal fistulas are mostly asymptomatic; however, there can be complications or undesired symptoms attributed to the fistula. For example, chronic epiphora through the fistula or eye, or mucoid discharge from the fistula, can occur. In addition, coughing and blowing one’s nose may cause clear discharge.

What is lacrimal punctum?

The lacrimal puncta are the gateway to the lacrimal drainage system; they open into the tubular canaliculi (See Figure 1B), which drain into the lacrimal sac at the valve of Rosenmuller (See Figure 1C).

Why do tear ducts get blocked?

As you age, the tiny openings that drain tears (puncta) may get narrower, causing blockage. Infection or inflammation. Chronic infection or inflammation of your eyes, tear drainage system or nose can cause your tear ducts to become blocked. Injury or trauma.

How do you unblock tear ducts?

Treating a blocked tear duct If you have a bacterial infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotic eye drops or pills to treat the infection. For a narrowed punctum, your doctor can use a small probe to widen it. They’ll then flush or irrigate the tear duct with a saline solution. This is an outpatient procedure.

How do you unblock a lacrimal duct?

Place a clean index finger between the inner corner of the eye and the side of the nose. Gently slide the index finger downwards while massaging the side of the nose. You can repeat it around 10 times in the morning and 10 times at night. You may also use warm compresses to relieve itching and irritation.