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Clinical characteristics and factors associated the outcome of lacrimal canaliculitis
Author(s) -
Lin ShuaiChun,
Kao ShuChing,
Tsai ChiehChih,
Cheng ChingYu,
Kau HuiChuan,
Hsu WenMing,
Lee ShuMei
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
acta ophthalmologica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.534
H-Index - 87
eISSN - 1755-3768
pISSN - 1755-375X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2009.01827.x
Subject(s) - outcome (game theory) , medicine , ophthalmology , optometry , mathematics , mathematical economics
. Purpose: To analyze the clinical and microbiological characteristics and factors associated with the outcome of lacrimal canaliculitis. Methods: Thirty four patients (34 eyes) treated for lacrimal canaliculitis between January 2001 and December 2006 in a tertiary medical centre were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical and microbiological profiles, treatment outcome, and risk factors related to recurrence and concretions formation were evaluated. Results: There were 10 males and 24 females with a mean age of 64 years. The average time lapse to diagnosis was 18 months. Lower canaliculus (91%) was most commonly involved. Six patients (18%) had both upper and lower canaliculitis. Culture positive specimens were 21 of 25 (84%), with a mixed infection of 7 (28%). Streptococcus species (28%), Staphylococcus species (20%), and Actinomyces (16%) were the most commonly cultured organisms. Concretions were noted in nine patients (26%). All cultures of concretions were positive. No specific factor was found to be related to concretions formation. Canaliculotomy was performed in 25 patients (74%). Recurrence developed in seven patients (21%), with a mean time to recurrence of 24 months. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that male patients (p = 0.038) and presence of concretions (p = 0.001) were associated with higher recurrent rate. Both patients with Haemophilus influenzae isolate developed recurrence (100%). Conclusion: Canaliculitis are often delayed diagnosed and prone to recur or persist. Male gender and concretions are important risk factors for recurrence. Surgical removal of all possible concretions is essential for cure.