A ductule dacryolith misdiagnosed as refractory conjunctivitis: a case report

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pathology

Background:

• Dacryoliths, calcifications within the lacrimal drainage system, are uncommon.
• Ductule dacryoliths, specifically, are exceptionally rare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of a giant ductule dacryolith.
• To describe the clinical features and management of this condition.
• To highlight the association with Haemophilus influenzae infection.

Main Methods:

• A case presentation of a female patient with persistent lateral canthal discharge.
• Diagnostic procedures included surgical exploration, bacterial culture, histopathology, and MRI.
• Treatment involved surgical removal of the dacryolith.

Main Results:

• A giant ductule dacryolith composed of amorphous acidic substances was identified in the temporal canthus.
• Infection with Haemophilus influenzae was confirmed by bacterial culture.
• Postoperative MRI showed no residual inflammation, and symptoms resolved immediately after surgery.

Conclusions:

• Giant ductule dacryoliths are rare but should be considered in cases of unilateral refractory conjunctivitis.
• Prompt surgical intervention can lead to complete symptom resolution.