Orbital Abscess Secondary to Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction in an Extremely Preterm Infant

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatrics
• Neonatology

Background:

• Orbital abscesses are uncommon in infants, with limited literature primarily on term infants.
• Children's developing sinuses and immune systems increase susceptibility to orbital infections like cellulitis, often from ethmoid sinusitis.
• Orbital cellulitis linked to dacryocystitis is exceptionally rare in pediatric populations.

Observation:

• Presents a case of a significant extraconal and intraconal orbital abscess in an extremely preterm infant.
• The abscess originated from nasolacrimal duct obstruction and dacryocystitis.
• This presentation is unusual given the infant's extreme prematurity.

Findings:

• The case involved a large orbital abscess in an extremely preterm infant.
• The abscess was secondary to nasolacrimal duct obstruction and dacryocystitis.
• Diagnosis and multidisciplinary management were critical for this challenging case.

Implications:

• This case expands understanding of orbital abscesses in extremely preterm infants.
• Highlights the importance of considering dacryocystitis as a cause of orbital abscess in this vulnerable population.
• Underscores the need for prompt, multidisciplinary care for complex pediatric orbital infections.