THE management of chronic dacryocystitis has been for many years a controversial topic among ophthalmologists and rhinologists. The problem has been not only how to treat this affliction but who should treat it. A review of the subject may help to clear up some of the moot points.
In most instances dacryocystitis in itself is not a serious disease except for the constant epiphora which plagues the patient. However, it is considered a potent cause of corneal ulcers. Moreover, when an operation on the eye is contemplated as for extraction of a cataract or for glaucoma, coexisting dacryocystitis becomes an additional problem to the ophthalmic surgeon and must be eradicated first, as a prophylactic measure.
DIAGNOSIS
The diagnosis of this condition is apparent when the patient presents himself with a history of lacrimation that has been persistent for a varying length of time. The secretion may be watery, mucoid or