Nasolacrimal duct obstruction secondary to dental impaction.

PURPOSE: To describe a patient with nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO) caused by dental impaction.

METHODS

This is an interventional case report of an 18-year-old man presenting epiphora of the right eye. Previous surgical management was unsuccessful. Computed tomography (CT) of the orbits and sinuses was performed. Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) on the right lacrimal sac resulted in complete remission of symptoms. The DCR surgical outcome at last follow-up was recorded.

RESULTS

The CT imaging showed ankylosis of deciduous canines and impaction of persistent canines. The root of the right impacted dental element was involved with the nasolacrimal duct, leading to NLDO. Endoscopic DCR resulted in complete remission of symptoms. The patient was symptom-free at last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Our case adds NLDO to the long list of complications arising from dental impactions, highlighting the importance of correct early management of the latter condition. This case also shows that dental impaction can be included among the secondary mechanical causes of NLDO.