Dacryostenosis is an acquired or congenital condition that results from nasolacrimal duct obstruction and causes epiphora or watery eyes. This condition is derived from the Greek words dákryon (“tear”) and stenósis (“narrowing”). The congenital form of dacryostenosis is the most prevalent cause of persistent tearing and ocular discharge, affecting nearly 6% of all infants and arising from abnormal canalization of the nasolacrimal system in utero. In nearly 90% of infants, symptoms related to blocked tear ducts can be resolved through conservative measures, such as gentle massage of the lacrimal duct area, before the baby reaches 12 months of age. However, if the symptoms persist beyond 6 to 10 months, it is advisable to refer the infant to an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye examination to assess for anisometropia and consider nasolacrimal duct probing. The acquired form of dacryostenosis can be classified as either primary or secondary, depending on the underlying cause. The causes of primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction include inflammation, fibrosis, mucosal edema, vascular congestion, stasis, infections, or trauma to the lacrimal apparatus, which can result in partial or total obstruction of the duct later in life.Although dacryostenosis is typically benign, untreated cases can advance to recurrent conjunctivitis and dacryocystitis, potentially causing stained tears, frequent eye infections, preseptal or orbital cellulitis, sepsis, meningitis, or brain abscess in both children and adults. This activity discusses the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of dacryostenosis, providing healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to deliver optimal patient care and minimize morbidity in individuals affected by dacryostenosis.
- Provider:StatPearls, LLC
- Activity Link: https://www.statpearls.com/ArticleLibrary/viewarticle/20248
- 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)
ABIM - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Medical Knowledge (ABIM)
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, Geriatric Medicine, Internal Medicine, Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine