Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction (CNLDO): A Review
Aldo Vagge,
Lorenzo Ferro Desideri,
Paolo Nucci,
Massimiliano Serafino,
Giuseppe Giannaccare,
Andrea Lembo,
Carlo Enrico Traverso
Affiliations
Aldo Vagge
Eye Clinic of Genoa, Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
Lorenzo Ferro Desideri
School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
Paolo Nucci
University Eye Clinic San Giuseppe Hospital, University of Milan, 20162 Milano, Italy
Massimiliano Serafino
University Eye Clinic San Giuseppe Hospital, University of Milan, 20162 Milano, Italy
Giuseppe Giannaccare
Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
Andrea Lembo
University Eye Clinic San Giuseppe Hospital, University of Milan, 20162 Milano, Italy
Carlo Enrico Traverso
Eye Clinic of Genoa, Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
Congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) is a common condition causing excessive tearing or mucoid discharge from the eyes, due to blockage of the nasolacrimal duct system. Nasolacrimal duct obstruction affects as many as 20% children aged <1 year worldwide and is often resolved without surgery. Available treatment options are conservative therapy, including observation, lacrimal sac massage and antibiotics, and invasive therapy. Observation, combined with conservative options, seems to be the best option in infants aged <1 year. Meanwhile, in children aged >1 year, nasolacrimal probing successfully addresses most obstructions. However, the most favorable timing for probing remains controversial. To alleviate persistent epiphora and mucous drainage that is refractory to probing, repeat probing, silicone tube intubation, balloon catheter dilation or dacryocystorhinostomy can be considered as available treatment options. Our review aims to provide an update to CNDO management protocols.
