[Dacryolith in a lacrimal duct]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pathology

Background:

• Conjunctival masses can present with varied etiologies.
• Temporal canthus masses are uncommon presentations for lacrimal system pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of dacryolithiasis presenting as a conjunctival mass.
• To highlight the importance of considering dacryoliths in the differential diagnosis of temporal canthus masses.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of a 31-year-old female with a persistent conjunctival mass.
• Incision and curettage for mass removal.
• Histopathological examination to identify the concretion.
• Lacrimal duct irrigation post-resection.

Main Results:

• An 8 mm concretion was removed from the left temporal canthus.
• Histopathology confirmed the concretion as a dacryolith within the lacrimal duct.
• The patient's symptoms resolved following surgical intervention and irrigation.

Conclusions:

• Dacryoliths, though rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of temporal canthus masses.
• Surgical resection of the dacryolith combined with lacrimal duct irrigation is an effective treatment.
• Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for resolving symptoms associated with lacrimal duct obstructions.