IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Dacryocystitis

Case contributed by Aakash Patel
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Patient presented with swelling near the medial canthus of right eye.

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Male
mri

Well-defined T2 hyperintense and T1 hypointense lesion in the region of the right lacrimal gland extending slightly into the right nasolacrimal duct. The lesion shows restricted diffusion on DWI and mild peripheral enhancement on past contrast study. Mild surrounding soft tissue inflammatory changes are seen. Findings are consistent with dacryocystitis.

Case Discussion

Dacryocystitis is inflammation of lacrimal gland most likely related to improper drainage along the nasolacrimal duct.  Symptoms include pain, redness and swelling along the inner corner of the eye with watery eyes. 

Radiologically it presents as well circumscribed lesion along the medial canthus of the eye which demonstrates enhancement on a postcontrast study. 

In the acute phase, treatment includes antibiotics. Surgery is usually required in chronic phase. The most dreaded complication includes orbital cellulitis.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.