Chronic, recurrent dacryocystitis from a BB in the lacrimal sac

Abstract

Metallic foreign bodies in the lacrimal outflow tract are a rarely reported cause of nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Among the few cases in the literature, 1 consisted of a BB in the nasolacrimal duct. This case report presents a second case of chronic, recurrent dacryocystitis in a child, which occurred secondary to a BB that had become lodged in the lacrimal sac. The metallic foreign body was identified on CT and successfully removed surgically. Exogenous sources of lacrimal sac foreign bodies should be considered in patients with a history of periorbital trauma and signs of chronic nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Evaluation with CT is recommended. Removal of the foreign body, with dacryocystorhinstomy as needed, is curative.