Dacryolith-induced acute dacryocystitis: a reversible cause of nasolacrimal duct obstruction

To report an unusual case of acute dacryocystits with fully patent nasolacrimal duct at follow-up after incision and curettage.

A 63-year-old patient with acute dacryocystitis and nasolacrimal duct abscess. CT orbits confirmed dacryocystitis without any orbital collection. Incision and drainage of the abscess was performed.

Postoperative syringing of nasolacrimal duct demonstrated a fully patent nasolacrimal duct, with long term relief of epiphora.

In some patients, dacryocystorhinostomy is not required after incision and drainage of a nasolacrimal abscess; reversible causes such as dacryoliths should always be considered.