Congenital lacrimal fistula is a rare developmental anomaly that poses a diagnostic challenge in both pediatric and adult populations and is characterized by persistent epiphora without identifiable causes. This condition involves abnormal ducts connecting the lacrimal system to the skin. In some cases, these ducts may have a blind course and not communicate with the skin, rendering the clinical presentation occult and further complicating the diagnosis.Classification of congenital lacrimal fistulae depends on the origin of the fistula tract, stemming from the common canaliculus, lacrimal sac, or nasolacrimal duct. Various hypotheses exist regarding its etiology, including excessive growth of the nasolacrimal duct’s external wall and abnormal embryonic fissure closure. Diagnostic methods encompass probing, irrigation, and radiological imaging techniques such as dacryocystography or nuclear scintigraphy. Asymptomatic cases typically undergo conservative management, whereas symptomatic cases, particularly those linked to nasolacrimal duct obstruction, may necessitate invasive treatments like probing, cautery ablation, or surgical excision. This activity offers a comprehensive review of the evaluation and treatment of congenital lacrimal fistula, highlighting the crucial role of the interprofessional healthcare team in effectively assessing and managing patients with this condition.
- Provider:StatPearls, LLC
- Activity Link: https://www.statpearls.com/ArticleLibrary/viewarticle/139668
- Start Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- End Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- Credit Details: AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.0 hours
Nursing: 1.0 hours
Pharmacy: 1.0 hours - MOC Credit Details: ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABS)
ABPATH - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABPATH)
ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABS)
ABP - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment (ABP) - Commercial Support: No
- Activity Type: Enduring Material
- CME Finder Type: Online Learning
- Fee to Participate: Variable
- Measured Outcome: Learner Knowledge, Learner/Team Competence
- Provider Ship: Directly Provided
- Registration: Open to all
- Specialty: All Practice Areas (e.g. ethics), General Pediatrics, General Surgery