Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2025

Cox-Maze IV Procedure Concomitant with Valvular Surgery In Situs Inversus Dextrocardia: A Single-Center Experience in China
Published on: February 11, 2022
Canalicular obstruction associated with dupilumab
Allan Z Nghiem1, Mahreen Ameen2, Nikolas Koutroumanos2
1Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, Pond Street, Belsize Park, London, NW3 2QG, UK. allan.nghiem@doctors.org.uk.
Dupilumab, a treatment for atopic dermatitis, can cause canalicular obstruction. This case series highlights treatment outcomes and suggests early ophthalmologist referral may prevent severe ocular complications.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Dupilumab is a biologic therapy for severe atopic dermatitis.
- Ocular complications, including blepharoconjunctivitis and punctal stenosis, are associated with dupilumab use.
- Canalicular obstruction represents a significant, though less common, ocular side effect.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report cases of canalicular obstruction in patients treated with dupilumab.
- To describe the treatment strategies and outcomes for these patients.
- To contribute to the understanding of dupilumab-associated ocular complications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of four patients.
- Diagnosis of canalicular obstruction by an oculoplastic consultant.
- Documentation of interventions including nasolacrimal intubation, conservative management, and endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy with stenting.
Main Results:
- Canalicular obstruction occurred between 3.25 and 4.75 years after starting dupilumab.
- Successful symptom resolution was achieved in three patients following nasolacrimal intubation or endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy.
- One patient remained symptomatic despite endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy with stenting.
Conclusions:
- Canalicular obstruction is a potential ocular complication of dupilumab therapy.
- Optimal treatment strategies are still evolving; conservative measures and surgical interventions show variable success.
- Early ophthalmological evaluation and management may mitigate risks and improve outcomes for patients on dupilumab.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-III: Symptoms and Complications.
Symptoms of COPD can be classified as primary or systemic. Primary symptoms relate to reduced airflow, while systemic or extrapulmonary symptoms relate to COPD's broader impact on the body.
Primary Symptoms of COPD:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Trachea
Anatomical Features:
Location: About half of the trachea is situated in the neck, anterior to the esophagus, and extends from the larynx (at the level of...

