Prolactin and Prolactin-inducible protein (PIP) in the pathogenesis of primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO).

Primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) is a syndrome of unknown etiology, predominantly affecting post-menopausal females, characterized by progressive inflammation, fibrosis and subsequent obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct. Numerous factors have been proposed as possible etiologic factors and include anatomical configuration, ocular and nasal infections, peri-lacrimal vascular disorders, hormonal influence, lacrimal drainage lymphoid tissue, gastroesophageal reflux disease, topical medications, swimming pool exposure, smoking, genetic factors, autonomic and lysosomal dysregulation. The authors hypothesize Prolactin (PRL) and Prolactin-inducible protein (PIP) play a role in the etiopathogenesis of primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction.