Luke Schloegel1, Raj Sindwani. 1. Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, St. Louis University School of Medicine, 3635 Vista Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Enlargement of the nasolacrimal canal (NLC) is a rare anatomic variant. We present the first report of a massively dilated NLC causing epiphora and chronic sinusitis. METHODS: The authors conducted a literature review and case report. RESULTS: A 65-year-old man with refractory sinonasal symptoms and a remote history of a dacryocystorhinostomy was found to have a massively dilated, air-filled NLC. Using a combined endoscopic transnasal and endoscope-assisted Caldwell-Luc approach, the posterolateral wall of the NLC was removed. The patient's symptoms were improved 10 months postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Symptoms suggestive of nasolacrimal dysfunction should prompt a search for potential sinonasal pathology.
OBJECTIVES: Enlargement of the nasolacrimal canal (NLC) is a rare anatomic variant. We present the first report of a massively dilated NLC causing epiphora and chronic sinusitis. METHODS: The authors conducted a literature review and case report. RESULTS: A 65-year-old man with refractory sinonasal symptoms and a remote history of a dacryocystorhinostomy was found to have a massively dilated, air-filled NLC. Using a combined endoscopic transnasal and endoscope-assisted Caldwell-Luc approach, the posterolateral wall of the NLC was removed. The patient's symptoms were improved 10 months postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Symptoms suggestive of nasolacrimal dysfunction should prompt a search for potential sinonasal pathology.