Cellulitis of the Lacrimal Sac

Phlegmon of the lacrimal sac is an acute infectious disease of the eye, which is caused by the development of purulent inflammation in the lacrimal sac. This phenomenon is also called phlegmonic dacryocystitis. It is characterized by severe inflammation and pain in the area of ​​the lacrimal punctum, swelling of the eyelid, discharge of purulent fluid from the conjunctival cavity and redness of the eyelids. In this material we will consider in detail the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of this disease.

Reasons for the development of phlegmon of the lacrimal sac: 1. Bacteria (the most common cause); 2. Mushrooms; 3. Viruses (less often). One of the most common factors in the occurrence of phlegmon is infection of the lacrimal ducts by bacteria that are in a state of anaerobes and aerobes. That is why, when examining a patient, blood must be taken to determine the level of leukocytes and the presence of pathogenic microbes in them. Hypothermia or eye injury can also cause phlegmon. In some cases, exacerbation of phlegmen occurs due to decreased immunity after a cold or flu. Once in the lacrimal sac, pathogenic microbes begin to multiply and release toxins, which causes an inflammatory process. Phlegmon does not appear out of nowhere; it is preceded by blockage or dystopia (improper position) of the lacrimal canals (distal part). So, if the canal is incorrectly positioned in the nose, it opens far from the exit. Such cases are observed with a tumor, foreign bodies in the nose, and also as a result of trauma to the nose.

Symptoms by which phlegmon of the lacrimal sac can be identified are:

severe pain in and around the eye; swelling of the eyelid; discharge of a thick yellow substance from the eyes; skin redness; headache; sharp decrease in vision. Diagnostics: Examination; Complete blood test to determine the presence of inflammation; Inhalation test; Biomicroscopy (checking the condition of the nasolacrimal duct and tear valve); X-ray (optional). Treatment: Antibiotics; Drops and ointments to relieve symptoms and reduce pain; Removal of purulent exudate (if necessary).



Cellulitis of the lacrimal sacs is an inflammatory disease that is characterized by the accumulation of pus in the outer membrane of the lacrimal gland. It can occur as a separate disease or as a complication of other diseases such as injury, infection or inflammation.

Unfortunately, there is no exact data on the prevalence of phlegmon of the lacrimal sacs. However, it occurs quite often in people of all age categories. This disease can lead to serious complications such as infection of adjacent tissues and organs, orbital abscess or meningitis.

Most patients with phlegmon of the lacrimal sac experience pain and redness in the eyes, tears