Congenital nasolacrimal duct mucocele: a cause of respiratory distress

Abstract

Congenital nasolacrimal duct mucocele is an uncommon condition in the newborn. Prolapse or expansion of the mucocele into the nose may lead to respiratory distress and difficulty in feeding, as newborns are preferential nose breathers. Infants with congenital lacrimal sac distension should be examined for signs of respiratory distress and nasal pathology. In the presence of respiratory distress, nasal examination and imaging studies should be done to ensure the diagnosis of nasolacrimal duct mucocele. If significant respiratory distress exists, endoscopic marsupialization of the nasolacrimal duct mucocele in conjunction with nasolacrimal duct probing by the ophthalmologist and possible insertion of lacrimal drainage tubes should be considered. At our institution the nasolacrimal duct mucocele was expectantly managed in two of three cases. Only one of the three patients manifested a significant degree of respiratory distress and required intervention. Endoscopic marsupialization of the nasolacrimal duct mucocele resulted in complete resolution of the mucocele and improvement in symptoms.