Lacrimal canalicular stenosis associated with systemic 5-fluorouacil therapy.
OBJECTIVE
Ocular side effects of systemic 5-fluorouracil therapy include excessive lacrimation which often resolves on cessation of therapy. Permanent stenosis of lacrimal puncta and canaliculi is rare. This report highlights this uncommon complication of 5-fluorouracil therapy.


METHODS
Report of two cases and review of literature.


RESULTS
Severe stenosis of puncta and canaliculi may be associated with prolonged systemic 5-fluorouracil therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
It is important for both the oncologist and ophthalmologist to be aware of the potential ocular toxicity of 5-fluorouracil. Surgical management to relieve the epiphora is often challenging, and early intervention may be beneficial.
Prasad
S
S
Department of Ophthalmology, Arrowe Park Hospital, Upton, Wirral, United Kingdom. somprasad@bigfoot.com
Kamath
G G
GG
Phillips
R P
RP
D000368:Aged; D002277:Carcinoma / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000601:surgery; D003082:Colectomy; D003110:Colonic Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000601:surgery; D003608:Dacryocystorhinostomy; D005260:Female; D005472:Fluorouracil / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D007767:Lacrimal Duct Obstruction / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D005472:Fluorouracil