| Tearing, a prominent
punctum, and swelling and tenderness over the canaliculus
suggest the diagnosis of canaliculitis. Anaerobic
bacteria (such as Actinomyces israelii)are often the
cause. In patients with canaliculitis, material can usually be expressed from the punctum by "milking" the canaliculus. Effective treatment entails evacuation of the lacrimal system by irrigation and the use of topical penicillin. However, because canaliculitis is often associated with an anatomic abnormality, irrigation is not always effective. Occassionally, incision and curettage is necessary, and in rare instances it must be followed by canalicular repair over a silicone stent. |
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Canaliculitis | Dacrycocystitis | Normal Tear Film | Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
Eye Lid | Lacrimal System Disorders | Scleral Disease