An orbital abscess secondary to acute dacryocystitis

Abstract

An orbital abscess is an ophthalmic surgical emergency that is typically caused by the spread of bacteria from adjacent structures, such as the sinuses, eyelids, or teeth. Although acute dacryocystitis is commonly associated with preseptal cellulitis, it rarely causes orbital infection. Infection of the lacrimal sac will typically localize in the preseptal space because the lacrimal sac lies anterior to the orbital septum. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of an intraconal abscess secondary to acute dacryocystitis. The key points in the surgical management of this entity are discussed.