Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 20, 2026

Transcanalicular Diode Laser-assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy for the Treatment of Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction
07:30

Transcanalicular Diode Laser-assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy for the Treatment of Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction

Published on: October 13, 2017

Evaluation and management of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction

Mitesh K Kapadia1, Suzanne K Freitag, John J Woog

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Medical Center, 720 Harrison Avenue Boston, MA 02118, USA.

Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America
|September 20, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Congenital nasolacrimal obstruction causes infant tearing and potential infections. Its exact incidence in newborns is debated, with estimates varying widely across studies.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Congenital nasolacrimal obstruction is a frequent infant condition causing persistent tearing.
  • It can lead to secondary infections like dacryocystitis and orbital cellulitis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the causes and treatment of congenital nasolacrimal obstruction.
  • To discuss the controversial incidence rates in newborns.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on congenital nasolacrimal obstruction.
  • Analysis of diagnostic criteria and reported incidence rates.

Main Results:

  • The incidence of congenital nasolacrimal obstruction varies significantly, with estimates ranging from 1.2% to 30%.
  • A commonly cited figure of 6% originates from a 1940s study with specific diagnostic methods.
  • Higher incidence is observed in infants with craniofacial disorders and Down's syndrome.

Conclusions:

  • The true incidence of congenital nasolacrimal obstruction in healthy newborns requires further clarification due to varying diagnostic approaches.
  • Understanding the causes and treatment options is crucial for managing this condition.

More Related Videos

Nasolacrimal Lavage as a Treatment for Ocular Surface Toxic Soup Syndrome03:40

Nasolacrimal Lavage as a Treatment for Ocular Surface Toxic Soup Syndrome

Published on: April 25, 2025

Related Concept Videos

Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway01:29

Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway

Nasopharyngeal suctioning is a procedure to remove secretions from the upper part of the respiratory tract that the patient cannot clear independently. It helps maintain airway patency and prevents complications such as aspiration pneumonia.
Equipment Required
Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment01:28

Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment

Angle-closure glaucoma, or closed-angle glaucoma, is an eye condition where the iris bulges out and blocks the iridocorneal angle, resulting in a buildup of aqueous humor and increased intraocular pressure. Immediate medical attention is necessary due to the sudden onset of symptoms. The treatment for angle-closure glaucoma includes short-term and long-term approaches. Short-term treatment involves using eye drops like pilocarpine to lower intraocular pressure by increasing aqueous humor...