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Chronic dacryocystitis caused by Mycobacterium fortuitum
A W Artenstein1, A S Eiseman, G C Campbell
1Department of Medicine, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC 20307-5001.
Ophthalmology
|May 1, 1993
Summary
Mycobacterium fortuitum can cause dacryocystitis, a rare infection of the tear sac. Surgical treatment, such as dacryocystectomy, may be effective for this unusual condition.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Dacryocystitis is typically caused by common bacteria, making atypical microbial agents rare.
- Mycobacterium fortuitum is known for causing keratitis and corneal ulcers, but not commonly dacryocystitis.
Observation:
- A case of chronic dacryocystitis caused by Mycobacterium fortuitum is presented.
- This represents the first reported instance of successful treatment with dacryocystectomy.
Findings:
- Mycobacterium fortuitum is an uncommon pathogen responsible for dacryocystitis.
- Host factors may predispose individuals to this infection.
- Diagnosis relies on isolating the organism in a relevant clinical context.
Implications:
- Mycobacterium fortuitum should be considered in recalcitrant dacryocystitis cases.
- Surgical intervention, specifically dacryocystectomy, can be a viable treatment option.
- Further research into predisposing factors for M. fortuitum dacryocystitis is warranted.