Lacrimal canaliculitis as a cause of recurrent conjunctivitis.

BACKGROUND

Bacterial conjunctivitis is routinely managed by optometrists. This case report describes a case of lacrimal canaliculitis, which is a cause for nonresolving conjunctivitis and is commonly misdiagnosed.

CASE REPORT: A 48-year-old man presented with a 5-month history of chronic conjunctivitis in the right eye. This was diagnosed as bacterial in etiology but had a short-lived response to various topical antibiotics. Examination found signs of canaliculitis, and Actinomyces israelii was cultured from the discharge. This was treated successfully by canaliculotomy with curettage followed by a postoperative course of phenoxymethylpenicillin.

CONCLUSIONS

It is important to consider the diagnosis of lacrimal canaliculitis in any patient with chronic or recurrent conjunctivitis. Greater awareness of this condition would prevent misdiagnosis and delays in referral for definitive treatment.