The primary etiology of dacryocystitis is nasolacrimal obstruction secondary to mucocele of the lacrimal sac, which is precipitated by chronic blockage of the nasolacrimal duct. Most cases of nasolacrimal duct obstruction are found in the older population, and result from chronic mucosal degeneration, ductile stenosis, stagnation of tears, and bacterial overgrowth. Infantile dacryocystitis is uncommon but presents with the same signs and symptoms.

Lacrimal sac obstructions often produce signs and symptoms similar to dacryocystitis but not as severe. They are collectively known as canaliculitis. These infections are differentiated by solid concretions called dacryoliths, which can be expressed from the infected lacrimal sac. Dacryoliths can result from bacterial, fungal or viral infections.

Management

Management of dacryocystitis includes oral antibiotics along with antibiotic pills. Sometimes irrigation of the lacrimal sac with antibiotic solution is necessary to control the infection. In a more severe case, hospitalization with IV antibiotic may be necessary.  Dacrocystitis often resulted in obstruction of nasolacrimal duct and tearing problem.  Surgery is needed then to resolve tearing problem by opening the duct.