Canaliculocoele: A Case Series and Review of Literature

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oculoplastics
• Lacrimal System Disorders

Background:

• Canaliculocoele is a rare cystic dilation of the lacrimal canaliculus.
• It often presents as a unilateral medial cystic swelling in the eyelid.
• Accurate diagnosis can be challenging, requiring a combination of clinical and imaging findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case series of canaliculocoele.
• To review the existing literature on this condition.
• To emphasize diagnostic and management strategies.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of five histopathologically confirmed cases of canaliculocoele.
• Inclusion criteria: diagnosis between January 2018-December 2019, minimum 6-week follow-up.
• Diagnostic tools included clinical examination, ultrasound biomicroscopy, and histopathology.

Main Results:

• Five cases of canaliculocoele were identified over two years.
• Mean age was 58.8 years, with a female predominance.
• Common findings included medial cystic swelling, punctal stenosis or absence, and canalicular cystic distension on ultrasound biomicroscopy.
• Surgical management involved cystectomy or marsupialization, with some cases receiving mini-Monoka intubation.

Conclusions:

• Canaliculocoele predominantly affects middle-aged women and is typically unilateral.
• A comprehensive approach combining clinical assessment, imaging (ultrasound biomicroscopy), and histopathology is essential for diagnosis.
• Surgical intervention is the mainstay of treatment.