An anatomic and histologic study of the caruncle

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Anatomy

Background:

• The caruncle is a small, fleshy structure located in the medial canthus of the eye.
• Its precise anatomical relationship to the common canaliculus is not fully understood.
• Understanding this relationship is crucial for ophthalmic surgical procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To histologically characterize the lacrimal caruncle.
• To define its anatomical proximity to the common canaliculus.

Main Methods:

• Histopathological examination of caruncle specimens from cadavers.
• Analysis of both preserved and fresh-frozen tissues.

Main Results:

• The average distance between the caruncle's external surface and the common canaliculus was 0.85 mm (shortest: 0.50 mm).
• Histologic abnormalities, including oncocytic change, apocrine metaplasia, and microscopic stones, were found in clinically normal-appearing caruncles.
• These findings highlight potential risks during procedures near the caruncle.

Conclusions:

• Surgical interventions on or near the caruncle require caution.
• Inadvertent damage to the nearby common canaliculus can occur.
• Histological variations in the caruncle may not always be clinically apparent.