Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction: An Unusual Presentation of Sarcoidosis

Abstract

Lacrimal drainage system disorders leading to epiphora are a common ophthalmologic complaint. When such a patient is identified, the ophthalmologist frequently collaborates with the otolaryngologist to perform a dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR). In rare cases, sinonasal sarcoidosis may lead to nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLD) and dacryocystitis. A 48-year-old Caucasian female was referred to the Otolaryngology clinic for evaluation of a 6-month history of persistent right-sided nasal obstruction and epiphora. After physical examination and computerized tomography (CT) scan, she was diagnosed with right NLD with dacryocystitis. The patient underwent right endoscopic DCR. Pathology from the lacrimal bone and nasal tissue demonstrated noncaseating granulomas suggestive of sarcoidosis. Postoperative evaluation including lung CT scan confirmed systemic sarcoidosis. Nasolacrimal duct obstruction very rarely is the presenting symptom in patients with sarcoidosis. Imaging is necessary to rule out other causes of NLD, and histopathology is essential for diagnosis. Noncaseating granulomas are found along the nasal tissue and lacrimal sac, specifically in the subepithelial layer. Treatment consists of DCR, either endoscopic or external. Both approaches achieve long-lasting resolution of symptoms but may require revision from inflammation and scarring. There is no consensus on the use of intraoperative or postoperative steroids.

Keywords: dacryocystorhinostomy; endoscopic; nasolacrimal duct; sarcoidosis.