Masquerades of Lacrimal Drainage Disorders

Abstract

Masquerades of lacrimal drainage disorders are not very uncommon [1–3]. They may simulate either an external manifestation of a lacrimal disorder or may mimic the presentations. Among the common masquerades of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstructions include other subtle lacrimal disorders like incomplete punctal canalization and canalicular wall dysgenesis, which can be easily missed, erroneously labeling the patient as a possible CNLDO [3]. Nasal conditions like allergic rhinitis, lacrimal wall maldevelopment, or other nasal mucosal inflammatory disorders may also mimic a CNLDO. Ocular conditions like buphthalmos, neonatal conjunctivitis, and ocular surface inflammatory disorders can also present with neonatal onset of epiphora and discharge. Occasionally subtle medial most ankyloblepharon can also be mistaken for a CNLDO.