The management of rhinitis in patients with functional epiphora: a randomized controlled crossover trial

Nasolacrimal duct obstruction, secondary to inflammation of the nasal mucosa, can result in epiphora. This can be treated successfully with topical corticosteroids, avoiding the need for surgery. This study tests the hypothesis that treating clinically significant rhinitis improves the symptoms of epiphora.

A randomized controlled crossover trial (pilot study) was performed at the Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle. Patients were assessed in an epiphora clinic by a consultant ophthalmologist and were included in the trial if they had bilateral functional epiphora, i.e., the nasolacrimal duct was patent on syringing. Twenty-three patients were then referred to a consultant otolaryngologist, where the severity of rhinitis and epiphora were assessed using visual analogue scales, subjective scoring, and clinical assessment. The 11 patients suitable for the study were randomized into two groups. The treatment group received nasal corticosteroids and the control group received no treatment, both groups changing treatment arms at a specified point. Subjective and objective scores were assessed at the beginning, midpoint, and end of each treatment period.

Seven of 11 patients showed an improvement in epiphora scores with topical therapy. Six patients documented a symptomatic improvement. Eight patients showed an improvement in symptoms and signs of rhinitis, with two patients continuing on nasal corticosteroids for nasal symptoms only. There was a statistically significant improvement in both epiphora symptom scores and clinical findings of rhinitis in patients treated with nasal steroids (p = 0.021 and 0.019, respectively).

Epiphora secondary to rhinitis can be treated successfully with intranasal steroids. Patients with epiphora should be asked about symptoms of rhinitis and should always have their nose examined for evidence of intranasal pathology.