Chemiluminescent evaluation of the human lacrimal outflow system.

A chemiluminescent material, Cyalume, has been used to demonstrate the structure and outflow patency of the human lacrimal drainage system. In this paper the details of this method are outlined and some of the possible benefits and limitations are discussed. Work is in progress to improve the techniques and to evaluate the toxicity of the chemiluminescent material in animals. It is hoped that these studies will lead to the development of a simple and rapid office procedure for assessing the structure and patency of the lacrimal tracts and simultaneously evaluating any obstruction.