[Imaging of the Lacrimal Gland and the Lacrimal Drainage System]

Abstract

A large number of different neoplastic, infective and autoimmunologic diseases can affect the lacrimal gland. Thorough imaging examinations can help to characterize lesions to narrow down possible differential diagnoses. Diseases of the lacrimal drainage system, especially obstructions with constant epiphora are often very irritating for the patients. Imaging examinations can assist in selecting the adequate therapy in interdisciplinary consensus. Moreover, interventional-radiological therapy (e. g. balloon-dacryocystoplasty) is an attractive minimally-invasive treatment alternative.