Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction – An Updated Review

Congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction is the blockage of the lacrimal drainage system. It occurs in approximately 5 to 20% of normal newborn infants. A history of tearing and mucous or mucopurulent discharge and recurrent pink eye in a young child should alert the physician to the presence of nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Usually this condition is diagnosed clinically, though there are some investigations for precise diagnosis. Treatment is supportive and non surgical in 90 to 95% of cases, only 5 to 10% patients need surgical intervention. Outcome is good with minimal complications.